What is pancrelipase (oral)?
Pancrelipase is a combination of three enzymes (proteins): lipase, protease, and amylase.
These enzymes are normally produced by the pancreas and are important in the digestion of fats,
proteins, and sugars.
Pancrelipase is used to replace these enzymes when the body does not have enough of its
own. Certain medical conditions can cause this lack of enzymes, including cystic fibrosis,
chronic inflammation of the pancreas, or blockage of the pancreatic ducts.
Pancrelipase may also be used following surgical removal of the pancreas.
Pancrelipase may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication
guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking pancrelipase (oral)?
You should not take pancrelipase if you are allergic to pork proteins.
Before taking pancrelipase, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment
or special tests to safely use this medication.
This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are
pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether pancrelipase passes into breast milk or if it could harm a
nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a
baby.
How should I take pancrelipase (oral)?
Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger
amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
It is important to use pancrelipase regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription
refilled before you run out of medicine completely.
Pancrelipase is usually taken with meals. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Do not hold the tablets or capsule contents in your mouth. The medication may irritate the
inside of your mouth.
Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release tablet or capsule. Swallow
the pill whole. Breaking or opening the pill may cause too much of the drug to be released at one
time.
You may open the pancrelipase capsule and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of
pudding or applesauce to make swallowing easier. Swallow this mixture right away without
chewing. Do not save the mixture for later use. Discard the empty capsule.
Do not inhale the powder from a pancrelipase capsule, or allow it to touch your skin.
It may cause irritation, especially to your nose and lungs.
Do not change brands of pancrelipase without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist.
Some brands of pancrelipase are interchangeable while others are not. Ask your pharmacist
which brands or generic forms can be substituted for another.
Store pancrelipase at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the
medicine in its original container, along with the packet of moisture-absorbing preservative if it
was provided with pancrelipase.
What happens if I miss a dose of pancrelipase (oral)?
Skip the missed dose and wait until your next scheduled dose to take the medicine.
Do not
take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Where can I get more information about pancrelipase (oral)?
Your pharmacist has information about pancrelipase (oral) written for health professionals that you may read.
What are the possible side effects of pancrelipase (oral)?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these
signs of an allergic
reaction:
hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Less serious side effects may include:
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell
your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What is the most important information I should know about pancrelipase (oral)?
You should not take pancrelipase if you are allergic to pork proteins.
Before taking pancrelipase, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have
a sudden onset of pancreatitis, or worsening of chronic pancreatic disease.
It is important to use pancrelipase regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription
refilled before you run out of medicine completely.
Do not hold the tablets or capsule contents in your mouth. The medication may irritate the
inside of your mouth.
Do not inhale the powder from a pancrelipase capsule, or allow it to touch your skin.
It may cause irritation, especially to your nose and lungs.
Do not change brands of pancrelipase without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist.
Some brands of pancrelipase are interchangeable while others are not. Ask your pharmacist
which brands or generic forms can be substituted for another.
Skip the missed dose and wait until your next scheduled dose to take the medicine.
Do not
take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What should I avoid while taking pancrelipase (oral)?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity
while you are using pancrelipase.
What other drugs will affect pancrelipase (oral)?
This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with pancrelipase.
Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins,
minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication
without telling your doctor.
What happens if I have an overdose of pancrelipase (oral)?