Indications
Lipase is a digestive enzyme that breaks down dietary fat. In combination digestive enzyme products, often together with Pepsin, Pancreatin and cellulase, it is used to ease indigestion, bloating and the heavy feeling that can follow fatty meals. Lipase is also a main part of pancreatic enzyme replacement used when the pancreas does not make enough enzymes, but that treatment needs a doctor’s supervision.
How It Works
Lipase splits fats (triglycerides) in food into fatty acids and glycerol, which the small intestine can absorb. When too little lipase is present, fat passes through undigested and can cause bloating, wind and pale, greasy, foul-smelling stools. Taking lipase with meals adds to the body’s own enzymes.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by your doctor, usually with or just after meals and snacks that contain fat. For pancreatic insufficiency, the dose depends on the product strength and the amount of fat in your diet and is set by the doctor.
Interactions
- Antacids containing calcium or magnesium may reduce how well some enzyme preparations work if taken at the same time.
- Lipase-containing products may slightly reduce the absorption of folic acid and iron supplements.
- Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, including Acarbose or Miglitol for diabetes, which other enzymes in some products may affect.
Contraindications
- Allergy to lipase or any ingredient, including pork products if the enzyme is of pig origin.
- Acute pancreatitis or a sudden worsening of long-term pancreatitis, unless a doctor advises otherwise.
Side Effects
Most people have no problems. Possible effects include stomach upset, nausea, diarrhoea or constipation, and mouth irritation if powder is held in the mouth. Very high doses of pancreatic enzymes over a long time have been linked to narrowing of the bowel, mainly in people with cystic fibrosis.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing), severe stomach pain or swelling, or vomiting that will not stop.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Lipase acts in the gut and is not expected to harm the baby, but data are limited. Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if advised by a doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
- Long-lasting indigestion, oily stools or weight loss should be checked by a doctor, as they can be signs of pancreas, liver or bowel disease.
- Do not chew or crush enteric-coated products, and do not hold powder in the mouth.
- Drink enough fluid while taking enzyme products.
Overdose
Too much may cause diarrhoea, stomach pain or nausea, and in people taking very large amounts, high uric acid levels. Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe.
Therapeutic Class
Digestive enzyme (fat-digesting enzyme).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.