PANCRELIPASE - ORAL

PANCRELIPASE - ORAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (PAN-kree-LYE-pase)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Viokace

GENERIC NAME(S): lipase/protease/amylase

Uses

USES: This medication is used along with a proton pump inhibitor medicine to treat people who cannot digest food normally. The pancreas is an organ in your body that normally produces enzymes to help you digest food. Certain conditions, such as surgical removal of some or all of the pancreas, or chronic pancreatitis, can decrease the production or release of these enzymes into the bowel (intestine). Pancrelipase contains a mixture of digestive enzymes (from pig pancreas) to help breakdown and digest fats, starches, and proteins in food.


How to use PANCRELIPASE - ORAL

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking pancrelipase and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth, usually with every meal and snack as directed by your doctor. Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush or chew the tablets or keep them in your mouth. Doing so can irritate the mouth/throat and change the way the medication works. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless your doctor tells you otherwise. The dosage is based on your medical condition, diet, weight, and response to treatment. Do not take more tablets in a day than prescribed by your doctor. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. Your doctor should also prescribe another medicine (proton pump inhibitor such as lansoprazole, omeprazole) to decrease stomach acid. This helps pancrelipase work better by preventing it from breaking down in your stomach. Use this medication regularly and follow any diet recommendations from your doctor or nutritionist to get the most benefit. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, bloating, constipation, or anal itching may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: severe stomach/abdominal pain. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking pancrelipase, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to pork products; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: gout, kidney disease, high uric acid level in the blood (hyperuricemia), intestinal problems (such as blockage). If you have diabetes, pancrelipase may affect your blood sugar. Check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Some products that may interact with this drug include: acarbose, miglitol.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Images

VIOKACE 10,440-39,150 UNITS TB

color
tan
shape
round
imprint
VIO9111, 9111
VIOKACE 20,880-78,300 UNITS TB

color
tan
shape
oblong
imprint
V16, 9116

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Faq for PANCRELIPASE - ORAL

Pancrelipase is an oral medication that contains enzymes (lipase, protease, and amylase) derived from the pancreas. It helps in the digestion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates by replacing the enzymes that are lacking or are not released properly by the pancreas.

Pancrelipase is commonly used in individuals with pancreatic insufficiency caused by conditions such as cystic fibrosis, chronic pancreatitis, or surgical removal of the pancreas. It aids in improving digestion and nutrient absorption in these patients.

The dosage of pancrelipase varies depending on the individual's condition and their specific enzyme requirements. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage as directed by the healthcare provider.

Common side effects of pancrelipase may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, nausea, and constipation. If these side effects persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Pancrelipase may interact with certain medications, including antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors. It is important to inform the healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products being taken before starting pancrelipase. Also, individuals with known allergies to porcine (pig) proteins should exercise caution while taking pancrelipase.

The effects of pancrelipase are usually seen within a few days to a week of starting the medication. However, it may take longer in some individuals. It is important to continue taking pancrelipase as prescribed by the healthcare provider for optimal benefits.

Yes, pancrelipase should be taken during or immediately before a meal or snack. This helps ensure that the enzymes are released into the digestive system at the right time to aid in the digestion of food.

Pancrelipase capsules can be opened and the contents mixed with a small amount of applesauce or other soft foods for those who have difficulty swallowing. Do not crush or chew the enteric-coated granules inside the capsules.

While pancrelipase is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using it to determine the potential risks and benefits.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.