CREON 25 000

Indications

• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
• Cystic fibrosis
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Post-surgical states involving the pancreas

Dosage

Children: Children aged 1–11 months: 1–2 capsules mixed with feeds. Children aged 1–17 years: 2–6 capsules to be taken with each meal, either swallowed whole or sprinkled on food.

Adults: Initially 1–2 capsules taken with each meal, and 1 capsule taken with snacks. Capsules may be swallowed whole or the contents mixed with a slightly acidic liquid or soft food, then swallowed immediately without chewing.

Mechanism of action

Pancreatin consists of a mixture of digestive enzymes including amylase, lipase, and proteases. These enzymes work in the gastrointestinal tract to break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into smaller molecules that can be easily absorbed by the body. The action of these enzymes is crucial, as their absence due to pancreatic insufficiency leads to malabsorption and nutrient deficiencies.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamic effects of pancreatin are primarily seen in the gastrointestinal tract where it enhances digestion and nutrient absorption. By providing the necessary enzymes that are lacking in patients with pancreatic insufficiency, pancreatin helps alleviate symptoms such as steatorrhea (fatty stools), abdominal discomfort, and weight loss. It helps improve the overall nutritional status of patients.

Pharmacokinetics

Pancreatin is administered orally and is inactivated by gastric acid, making it necessary to take it with food or immediately before or after meals for optimal effect. The enzymes are released in the duodenum where they exert their action. The absorption of the resulting products of digestion occurs in the small intestine. The exact pharmacokinetic profile, including half-life and metabolism of the individual enzymes, varies and is often not detailed due to the complex nature of enzyme activity and digestion.

Adverse effects

• Abdominal distension
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Skin reactions
• Fibrosing colonopathy

Interactions

• Pancreatin may reduce the effects of acarbose

Precautions

• Can irritate the perioral skin and buccal mucosa if retained in the mouth
• Excessive doses can cause perianal irritation

Pregnancy

Not known to be harmful.

Breast-feeding

Not known to be harmful.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place. Keep the container tightly closed.

Formulations

• CREON® 10000
• CREON® 25000
• CREON® 40000
• PANCREX® V CAPSULES
• PANCREX® V POWDER
• PANCREX® V TABLETS
• PANCREX® V TABLETS FORTE
• CREON® MICRO