Generic
Pancreatin
10 brands available in the market
At a glance
Pancreatin is a pancreatic enzyme supplement used for chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, pancreatectomy, gastrectomy and other conditions associated with pancreatic insufficiency.
Description
Pancreatin is an extract from mammalian pancreas containing enzymes with Amylase, Protease and Lipase activity. It disintegrates in the alkaline medium of the duodenum to release active enzyme components. Amylase hydrolyzes dietary starch to maltose, maltotriose and α-dextrin. Protease cleaves peptide bonds to form amino acids and oligopeptides. Lipase hydrolyzes dietary triglycerides to fatty acids and beta-monoglyceride.
Indications
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Cystic fibrosis/Mucoviscidosis
- Following partial or complete pancreatectomy
- Total gastrectomy
- Steatorrhea
- Somatostatinoma
- Celiac disease
- Other conditions associated with pancreatic insufficiency
Therapeutic class
Digestive Enzyme
Pharmacological class
Pancreatic Enzyme
Pharmacology
Pancreatin contains amylase, protease and lipase enzymes which hydrolyze dietary starch, protein and fat to aid nutrient absorption.
Mechanism of action
Supports digestion by replacing insufficient pancreatic enzymes.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- 2-3 tablets with meals (with little water)
Administration
- Take during or immediately after meals
- Swallow tablet whole; do not chew, crush or break
- Take with little water
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort
- Buccal and perianal soreness (in infants)
- Hypersensitivity reactions (sneezing, lacrimation, skin rash)
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in patients allergic to animal protein
- Do not use concurrently with antacids
- Inform doctor if history of gout, asthma or allergies
- Monitor blood sugar in diabetic patients
Contraindications
- Acute pancreatitis or acute exacerbation of chronic pancreatic disease
Drug interactions
- May impair oral absorption of folic acid
- Antagonises hypoglycaemic effect of acarbose
Food interactions
Safety with alcohol not known; consult doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Pancreatin may be unsafe during pregnancy; use only if clearly needed.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Pancreatin is probably safe during breastfeeding; no significant risk to baby.
Pediatric use
Safety not established in children.
Geriatric use
Safe for elderly.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution in kidney disease; uric acid levels may increase; dose adjustment may be needed.
Hepatic Impairment: Limited information; consult doctor.
Overdose effects
Excessive dosage may produce laxative effect; systemic toxicity does not occur; very high doses may cause hyperuricaemia and hyperuricosuria.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Pancreatin