Crezyme Pro

Indications

Pancreatin is used to replace digestive enzymes when the pancreas does not make enough of them (exocrine pancreatic insufficiency). This can happen with cystic fibrosis, long-term (chronic) pancreatitis, after surgery on the pancreas or stomach, and in pancreatic cancer. It helps the body digest fat, protein and starch, which reduces oily, loose stools, bloating and weight loss. Some products are also used for indigestion.

How It Works

Pancreatin is a mix of the enzymes lipase (breaks down fat), protease (breaks down protein) and amylase (breaks down starch), usually taken from pig pancreas. Taken with food, it does the job the pancreas normally does in the gut so food can be absorbed.

Dosage and Administration

The dose depends on the lipase strength of the product, the size and fat content of the meal, and the person's symptoms, so it is taken as prescribed. A dose is taken with every meal and a smaller dose with snacks. Swallow capsules or tablets whole with a drink during or just after food. Do not chew or crush them. If a capsule is hard to swallow, it can be opened and the granules mixed with a little soft, acidic food such as apple puree and swallowed at once without chewing. Children: as prescribed.

Interactions

Antacids containing calcium or magnesium may reduce its effect. It may reduce the absorption of folic acid and iron. It may weaken the effect of Acarbose and Miglitol, which are used for diabetes.

Contraindications

• Allergy to pork or pig products, or to any ingredient of the product.
• Sudden (acute) pancreatitis, or a flare of chronic pancreatitis, unless a doctor advises it.

Side Effects

Common: stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, constipation or diarrhoea. Less common: skin rash or itching. Holding the medicine in the mouth can cause soreness of the mouth. High doses can irritate the skin around the anus and raise uric acid in the blood.

Get urgent medical help for signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, widespread rash), or for severe or worsening stomach pain, swollen belly or vomiting, which can be a sign of bowel narrowing in people on high doses.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Pancreatin works in the gut and very little is absorbed into the body, so it is not expected to harm the baby. It can be used in pregnancy and while breastfeeding if the doctor feels it is needed.

Precautions and Warnings

• Drink plenty of fluids, especially in hot weather, to help prevent constipation.
• People with cystic fibrosis on high doses should report any new stomach pain or change in bowel habit, as very high doses have been linked to narrowing of the large bowel (fibrosing colonopathy).
• Do not change the dose or switch between products without advice, as products differ in strength.
• People who avoid pork for religious or other reasons should know most products are made from pig pancreas.

Overdose

Too much can cause diarrhoea, stomach upset, irritation around the anus and high uric acid levels. Stop extra doses and seek medical advice. Very high doses over a long time can damage the bowel.

Therapeutic Class

Digestive enzyme (pancreatic enzyme replacement).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place with the container tightly closed, away from light and out of the reach of children.