Pancreatin

Pancrelipase, in general, is composed of a mixture of pancreatic enzymes which include amylases, lipases, and proteases. These enzymes are extracted from porcine pancreatic glands. For further information on the components of this mixture please visit Pancrelipase amylase, Pancrelipase protease and Pancrelipase lipase.

Pancrelipase is a purified form of porcine pancreatic lipase, amylase, and protease enzymes used to treat malabsorption associated with pancreatic insufficiency resulting from cystic fibrosis and pancreatitis.

The use of pancrelipase amylase is part of the pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy. This therapy is indicated for the treatment of pancreatic insufficiency attributed to cystic fibrosis, chronic pancreatitis or any other medically defined pancreatic disease that might require it. Pancreatic diseases are associated with the deterioration of pancreatic parenchyma and of the dual physiological functions of the pancreas. Once established, pancreatic insufficiency results in malnutrition, weight loss, and steatorrhea.

• Aerophagy
• Deficiency Digestive enzymes
• Diarrhoea
• Dyspepsia
• Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
• Flatulence
• Gastrointestinal Discomfort
• Pancreatic Insufficiency
• Post Operative Gas
• Pre-operative Gas
• Fat malabsorption
• Meteorism
• Bile Duct Disorders
• Carbohydrate Digestion
• Digestive Aid
• Fat Digestion
• Liver Metabolism
• Protein Digestion

The major maldigestion/malabsorption problems arise from incomplete fat digestion. In clinical trials, the administration of pancrelipase as a mixture of amylase, lipase, and protease demonstrated a significant improvement in the coefficient of fat absorption and nitrogen absorption. These effects are accompanied by increased in body weight and body mass index.

Pancrelipase is used to replace the deficiency of pancreatic enzymes. As abovementioned, pancrelipase is formed by a mixture of lipase, protease, and amylase which are able to break down fat, protein, and starches, respectively, in the small intestine. For a more specific description of each mechanism of action, please visit Pancrelipase amylase, Pancrelipase protease and Pancrelipase lipase.

Pancrelipase acts locally in the GI tract and it is not absorbed in any significant amount.

Pancrelipase acts locally in the GI tract and it is not absorbed in any significant amount thus, the volume of distribution is not relevant.

Pancrelipase acts locally in the GI tract and it is not absorbed in any significant amount thus, the protein binding is not relevant.

Pancrelipase is entirely eliminated in the feces.

Pancrelipase acts locally in the GI tract and it is not absorbed in any significant amount thus, the elimination half-life is not relevant.

Pancrelipase acts locally in the GI tract and it is not absorbed in any significant amount thus, the clearance rate is not relevant.

The studies of the toxicology of pancrelipase are not needed as this drug has been used clinically for a long time. Clinical overdose studies proved no effect on lungs, pancreas, liver and kidneys but it can produce symptoms such as diarrhea or stomach upset. Carcinogenicity studies have not shown any increased incidence with the use of pancrelipase. As pancrelipase is not absorbed, the effect on fetal development or reproduction is not expected.

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Take with fluids.
• Take with food. If swallowing the oral capsule is not tolerated, sprinkle on acidic soft foods with a pH of 4 or less.