Pancrelipase is a prescription medication used to assist in the digestion of food in individuals with pancreatic insufficiency. It contains a mixture of digestive enzymes, including lipase, protease, and amylase, normally produced by the pancreas. Pancrelipase supplements these enzymes, helping to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates in the digestive tract, thereby improving nutrient absorption.

The lack of digestive enzymes can affect the microbiome and may make symptoms worse. Symptoms of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) include:

• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Greasy, foul-smelling stool
• Weight loss

Initially, EPI may be hard to diagnose, as it shares similar symptoms to other GI conditions such as IBS, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, Celiac disease, and SIBO.

Pancrelipase is primarily prescribed for treating conditions involving pancreatic insufficiency, where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes to digest food properly. It is commonly used in the following situations:

Cystic fibrosis: Individuals with cystic fibrosis often have pancreatic insufficiency. Pancrelipase helps improve the digestion and absorption of essential nutrients.

Chronic pancreatitis: This condition can damage the pancreatic tissue, reducing enzyme production. Pancrelipase is used to alleviate digestive problems associated with chronic pancreatitis.

Post-pancreatic surgery: Patients may require pancrelipase to aid digestion after certain surgical procedures involving the pancreas, such as pancreatectomy.

Pancrelipase may also be used in other medical conditions where pancreatic enzyme supplementation is necessary. You can get same-day treatment for GI issues with Sesame.

Some side effects of Creon may decrease or go away as your body adjusts to the medication.

Side effects of Creon include:

• Abdominal pain
• Anal itching
• Decreased appetite
• Diarrhea
• Feeling fuller more quickly
• Frequent bowel movements
• Gallstones
• Headache
• Indigestion
• Vomiting

Creon may raise uric acid levels, which can aggravate or cause a gout attack. Increased uric acid levels may also cause kidney stones, which can lead to kidney damage or failure.

The best medication for pancreatic insufficiency is pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT). These medications replace digestive enzymes, including lipase, protease, and amylase, that break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.

PERT medications include:

• Creon
• Pancreaze
• Pertzye
• Viokace
• Zenpep

Before starting treatment with pancrelipase, inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with pancrelipase.

You should tell your healthcare provider if you have or have had:

• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Gout
• High or low blood sugar
• Intestinal surgery, blockage, or thickening of the bowel wall
• Kidney disease

Discuss any history of allergies, especially if you are allergic to pork products, as some pancrelipase formulations are derived from porcine (pig) pancreas. In addition, tell your provider if you are lactose intolerant.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using pancrelipase to assess potential risks and benefits.

No, Creon is only available by prescription from a licensed provider.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can assess your eligibility and prescribe pancrelipase if it's appropriate for your medical condition and needs. You can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy, depending on the medication. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether pancrelipase might be right for you.

All prescriptions are at the discretion of the provider.

Creon and similar medications are not available as generics, so they may be expensive. The price you will pay will depend on whether you are using insurance or paying cash. The price with your insurance will depend on the pharmacy you choose and your individual plan.

Cash prices can vary depending on the pharmacy, location, strength, and quantity.

Your provider will adjust your dosage based on your condition and how you respond to treatment. In general, you will need to take Creon with every meal and snack. With snacks, you will take approximately half the dose you take with meals.

If you miss a dose of Creon, skip that dose and continue your normal doses with your next meal or snack. Do not double up or take extra doses. Do not stop taking Creon without talking with your provider first.

Creon should be stored in the original container, away from heat and light. Keep all medications out of sight and reach of children and pets.