Pancreatin

About pancreatin

The pancreas normally makes digestive juices which contain chemicals (enzymes). These enzymes are greatly reduced in people with cystic fibrosis, or pancreatic problems, or those who have had their pancreas removed. This can result in food not being digested or absorbed properly - in particular, fatty foods and fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E and K).

Pancreatin replaces the enzymes which normally come from the pancreas, and will help your body digest fats, starch and protein. You need to take it every time you eat, which can mean taking many doses each day.

Before taking pancreatin

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking pancreatin it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are allergic to pork protein.

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding (although pancreatin is not known to be harmful).

• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take pancreatin

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. The leaflet will give you more information about the specific brand of pancreatin you have been given, and a full list of side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

• Take pancreatin exactly as your doctor tells you to. Your doctor will tell you how much to take, and may adjust your dose from time to time to make sure it continues to be the right dose for you.

• You will need to take pancreatin every time you eat a meal or a snack. It is also important that you have plenty to drink with pancreatin.

• Take your doses either immediately before, or at the same time as, or immediately after, eating your food. This is because acid in your stomach can stop pancreatin from working. The food you are eating will help protect the enzymes from the acid.

• Pancreatin is available in a variety of different strengths and formulations. Carefully follow the directions for how to take the preparation you have been given.

• Some preparations can be mixed with food; others need to be swallowed whole and must not be chewed.

• Some capsules and granules are specially coated to protect them from stomach acid - these need to be taken with slightly acidic fruit juices such as apple or orange.

• Do not mix pancreatin with very hot food or liquids. Heat will stop pancreatin from working properly.

• Do not store mixtures of pancreatin; take your dose as soon as possible after mixing with food or drink.
  

Getting the most from your treatment

• Try to keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress. If you have cystic fibrosis, there will be many aspects to your treatment and you may need to go to a number of different clinics.

• Children with cystic fibrosis need a high fat and carbohydrate diet. Your doctor will ask a dietician to give you detailed advice. High-energy drink supplements and vitamin supplements may also be needed.

• Treatment with pancreatin is usually long-term. Continue to take it unless you are advised otherwise.

• Each time you collect a prescription, check to make sure you have been given the same brand as before. If you are unsure, ask your pharmacist to check for you.

Can pancreatin cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store pancreatin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

• Please check the manufacturer's information leaflet that comes with your medicine for any special storage instructions.

Important information about all medicines