Pancreatin is a porcine-derived pancreatic enzyme concentrate standardized to contain lipase, amylase, and protease activities. The 220mg strength typically provides approximately 8,000 USP units of lipase, 30,000 USP units of amylase, and 35,000 USP units of protease. It acts as a digestive aid, replacing deficient exocrine pancreatic secretions in the duodenum to facilitate the digestion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
Adult: Individualized based on fat intake and clinical response. Typical starting dose: 1-2 capsules (220mg each) with each meal and 1 capsule with snacks. Dosage is titrated to control steatorrhea (usual range: 500 to 2,500 USP units of lipase per kg per meal).
Note: Must be taken with meals or snacks. Swallow capsules whole with plenty of liquid (water). DO NOT crush or chew the capsules/tablets as this destroys the enteric coating. For patients unable to swallow capsules (e.g., infants, elderly), the capsule can be opened and the microspheres/mini-tablets mixed with a small amount of soft, acidic food (e.g., applesauce, yogurt, fruit puree) at room temperature and administered immediately. Do not mix with alkaline foods or hold in mouth.
Pancreatin contains a mixture of digestive enzymes (lipase, amylase, protease) derived from porcine pancreas. It acts as a physiological replacement for deficient endogenous pancreatic secretions. Lipase hydrolyzes triglycerides into monoglycerides and free fatty acids. Amylase hydrolyzes starch into dextrins and sugars. Proteases (trypsin, chymotrypsin) hydrolyze proteins into peptides and amino acids. This enzymatic action occurs in the duodenum and proximal jejunum, facilitating normal digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). Animal reproduction studies not conducted. Use only if clearly needed and potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Not systemically absorbed, so direct fetal risk is low.
Driving: No effect. Unlikely to cause impairment.
| Acarbose / Miglitol | May reduce efficacy of these anti-diabetic drugs. Pancreatic enzymes digest complex carbohydrates that acarbose acts upon. | Moderate |
| Antacids (containing Calcium Carbonate or Magnesium Hydroxide) | May compromise the integrity of the enteric coating if taken simultaneously, leading to premature enzyme inactivation. | Moderate |
| H2 Receptor Antagonists (e.g., Ranitidine) / Proton Pump Inhibitors (e.g., Omeprazole) | May improve efficacy of pancreatin by reducing gastric acidity, protecting enzymes. Often co-prescribed. | Beneficial |
| Iron supplements | Pancreatin may impair iron absorption. Administer at different times. | Moderate |
| Folic Acid | Pancreatin may impair folic acid absorption. Monitor levels. | Moderate |
Same composition (Pancreatin (220mg)), different brands: