Pancreatin
Generic name: pancreatin [ PAN-kree-a-tin ]
Brand names: Hi-Vegi-Lip, Pancreatin 4X, Donnazyme, Digipepsin
Dosage form: oral tablet (-; 600 mg)
Drug class:Digestive enzymes
What is pancreatin?
Pancreatin is a combination of digestive enzymes (proteins). These enzymes are normally produced by the pancreas and are important for digesting fats, proteins, and sugars.
Pancreatin is used to replace digestive enzymes when the body does not have enough of its own. Certain medical conditions can cause this lack of enzymes, such as cystic fibrosis, pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or pancreas surgery.
Pancreatin may also be used to treat a condition called steatorrhea (loose, fatty stools).
Pancreatin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not take pancreatin if you are allergic to pork proteins, or if you have a sudden onset of pancreatitis or worsening of a long-term problem with your pancreas.
Before taking this medicine
You should not take pancreatin if you are allergic to pork proteins, or if you have a sudden onset of pancreatitis or worsening of a long-term problem with your pancreas.
To make sure pancreatin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether pancreatin will harm an unborn baby. Do not use pancreatin without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether pancreatin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take pancreatin?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Pancreatin should be taken with a meal or snack.
Take pancreatin with a full glass of water.
Do not hold the tablet in your mouth. The medicine may irritate the inside of your mouth.
Do not crush, chew, or break a pancreatin tablet. Swallow it whole.
To be sure this medicine is helping your condition, you may need frequent blood tests. You may not notice any change in your symptoms, but your blood work will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with pancreatin.
Call your doctor if your s...
