Pancreatin mechanism of action. Approximate cost of the medicine

Pancreatin is a pancreas extract that contains enzymes that improve the digestive process. This enzyme medicine contains enzymes such as protease, lipase and amylase, which break down proteins, lipids and carbohydrates that are part of various foods. Pancreatin is used for various diseases gastrointestinal tract, in case of serious errors in diet, as well as before x-rays or ultrasound diagnostics organs abdominal cavity.

Pancreatin was first used in the mid-60s of the last century in the form of a powder made from pig pancreas. After some time, it was proven that upon contact with the acidic environment of the stomach, pancreatin lost its effect. In the future pharmaceutical companies began to produce it in the form of dragees, tablets and capsules, which, passing the stomach, dissolved in duodenum.

Currently, pancreatin is produced from the pancreas of cows or pigs. Pancreatin is a fine-grained, slightly yellow or gray with a very specific smell. It should be noted that this medication is very poorly soluble in water.

Types of medication, commercial names of analogues, release forms

Due to the fact that pancreatin itself quickly loses its activity in gastric juice, this enzyme medicine is usually produced in the form of tablets that are coated with an enteric coating. Thanks to this shell, pancreatin passes through the stomach and, having penetrated the duodenum, begins to dissolve under the influence of a more alkaline environment.

Pancreatin has a number of different trade names - Biozym, Vestal, Panzinorm, Pancreazim, Pangrol, Ferestal, Pankrelipase, Enzibene, Evenzym, Biofestal, Ermital and others. These analogues are dosed according to the amount of lipase in them ( an enzyme that breaks down fats into glycerol and fatty acids).

Manufacturers of pancreatin

Manufacturer	Commercial name of the drug	Country of origin	Release form	Dosage
Pharmstandard-medicines	Pancreatin	Russian Federation	Tablets coated with enteric film.	Tablets, like capsules, can be taken with or after meals. The medication should be taken without chewing with a glass of water ( 200 – 250 milliliters). The daily and single dosage must be selected based on the degree of pancreatic insufficiency. Average daily dosage for adults is 150,000 units. If complete insufficiency of exocrine pancreatic function occurs ( disruption of the production of enzymes involved in digestion) daily dosage should be increased to 400,000 units ( this dose corresponds to the daily requirement of the adult human body for the enzyme lipase). For children over one and a half years old, 100 thousand units are prescribed per day, and younger – 50 thousand units. The course of treatment varies greatly ( depending on the pathology and degree of pancreatic enzyme deficiency).
Biosynthesis	Pancreatin
Avexima	Pancreatin
Pharmproject	Pancreatin
Valenta	Pancreatin
ABVA RUS	Pancreatin
		Germany
Abbot Products	Creon		Film-coated capsules.
Berlin-Chemie	Pangrol
Nordix Arzneimittel	Hermital
Rusan Pharma	Gastenorm Forte	India	Enteric-coated tablets.

The mechanism of therapeutic action of the drug

Pancreatin is an enzyme medication that can compensate for the lack of certain pancreatic enzymes. This enzyme preparation contains protease ( breaks down proteins into individual amino acids), amylase ( breaks down starch into oligosaccharides) and lipase ( breaks down fats to fatty acids and glycerin), which are necessary for a complete digestion process. It should also be noted that pancreatin to some extent improves the functioning of the entire gastrointestinal tract.

The enzymes that make up this medication are released only in the alkaline environment of the duodenum thanks to a special shell ( enteric coated).

Most often, during exacerbation of chronic pancreatitis, it is preferable to use pancreatin in tablet form, and in case of impaired enzyme production ( exocrine pancreatic insufficiency) – in microtablet form.

The maximum effect after taking pancreatin is observed, on average, after 30 – 50 minutes.

For what pathologies is it prescribed?

Pancreatin is prescribed for insufficient exocrine pancreatic function. It may also be prescribed to prepare for the examination of organs located in the abdominal cavity ( Ultrasound or X-ray examination).

Use of pancreatin

Name of pathology	Mechanism of action	Dosage
Diet violation	Contains digestive enzymes. Amylase breaks down starch into smaller chains of carbohydrates ( oligosaccharides), lipase breaks down lipids into glycerol and fatty acids. Protease, in turn, is capable of breaking down proteins into individual amino acids. These enzymes, having penetrated the duodenum, are able to replace pancreatic enzymes.	The medication is taken before meals or before meals. The dosage is selected based on age or degree of pancreatic enzyme deficiency. For adults the average daily dosage should not exceed 150,000 units. The maximum daily dosage is 15,000 - 20,000 units per kilogram of body weight. In case of complete pancreatic enzyme deficiency, up to 400,000 units per day are prescribed. IN childhood (up to 1.5 years) the daily dosage is 50,000 units, and over one and a half years and older - 100,000 units. The dosage must be selected taking into account the quantity and quality of food ( based on the amount of fat consumed during the day). During gastric resection ( surgical removal parts of the stomach) It is recommended to open the capsule with the medicine and drink its contents without chewing. The course of treatment is selected by the attending physician and depends on the pathology.
Chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Pancreatic cancer
Acute intestinal infections
Irritable bowel syndrome (chronic abdominal pain, bloating and abdominal discomfort)
Narrowing of the pancreatic duct
Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (pancreatic insufficiency, bone marrow, as well as various bone abnormalities)
Intestinal form of cystic fibrosis (secretory insufficiency of the digestive organs)	Same.	The dosage should be selected individually.
Combination therapy
After surgical operations on the pancreas	Same.	The dosage is selected in each case separately.
After organ irradiation digestive tract	Same.
Preparing for an ultrasound or x-ray examination of the abdominal organs	Normalizes digestion and thereby facilitates visualization of the abdominal organs during X-ray or ultrasound examination.

How to use the medicine?

Capsules or tablets should be taken during or immediately after meals. The medication should not be chewed. It is necessary to take pancreatin with a sufficient amount of water ( in the amount of 200 - 250 milliliters). This is necessary so that the enzymes that make up the medication are released in the duodenum exactly at the moment when food enters it.

The dosage of the medication is selected by the doctor based on the age and degree of pancreatic enzyme deficiency. If a person has a complete deficiency in the production of digestive enzymes by the pancreas, then 400,000 units are prescribed, which fully corresponds to the person’s need for an enzyme that breaks down fats ( lipase).

Average daily dosage for an adult is 150,000 units, and the maximum is 15,000 - 20,000 units per kilogram of weight.

For children up to one and a half years, a dose of 50,000 units is provided, and from one and a half years - 100,000 units.

In the intestinal form of cystic fibrosis, the single and daily dosage of the drug should be selected only by the attending physician. The course of treatment can vary greatly depending on the disease ( in case of violation of the diet, treatment lasts several days, and in case of complete insufficiency of pancreatic function - months and years).

Possible side effects

When taking Pancreatin, any side effects are rarely recorded. These phenomena can only occur when long-term use high doses of medication.

The following side effects may occur when taking Pancreatin:

• disorders of the gastrointestinal tract;
• disorders of the urinary system;
• allergic manifestations.

Gastrointestinal disorders

Since pancreatin acts directly on the mucous membrane of the digestive organs, sometimes nausea, single vomiting, bloating and painful sensations in the upper abdomen.

Urinary system disorders

Quite rarely, the urinary system may experience symptoms such as hyperuricuria and hyperuricemia, which are characterized by an increase in the level of uric acid in the urine and blood. These disorders are a consequence of increased production uric acid in the body.

Allergic manifestations

Allergic reactions while taking pancreatin occur relatively rarely. In some cases, allergies may appear as a skin rash. This rash usually appears as small, itchy spots that can appear on various parts of the body. In some cases, urticaria may occur. This allergic reaction is characterized by the appearance of severely itchy blisters on the skin. The skin rash of urticaria is pale pinkish in color and slightly raised above the skin level. It should be noted that these blisters are similar in appearance to the blisters that appear after nettle burns.

Approximate cost of the medicine

Pancreatin can be purchased in various cities Russian Federation. Depending on the release form and dosage, the price may vary slightly.

Average price of pancreatin

City	Average cost of medicine
	Enteric-coated tablets	Enteric-coated capsules
Moscow	47 rubles	211 rubles
Kazan	46 rubles	209 rubles
Krasnoyarsk	46 rubles	208 rubles
Samara	45 rubles	206 rubles
Tyumen	48 rubles	211 rubles
Chelyabinsk	50 rubles	213 rubles

Is it possible to take pancreatin during pregnancy?

The drug pancreatin is prescribed for various digestive disorders associated with insufficient secretory function of the pancreas. This medication contains pancreatic enzymes from pigs or cattle, which are essentially identical to human enzymes. Pancreatin contains enzymes such as amylase, lipase and protease. Amylase has the ability to break down ( hydrolyzes) long chains of carbohydrates to shorter ones ( oligosaccharides), protease hydrolyzes proteins to individual amino acids, and lipase breaks down lipids ( fats) to fatty acids and glycerol.

During pregnancy in female body various changes are taking place in hormonal background, which may result in some problems with the digestion process. Often pregnant women complain of heartburn, nausea, heaviness in the abdomen, etc. These symptoms in some cases may occur due to a lack of digestive enzymes produced by the pancreas. If the doctor has diagnosed partial or complete insufficiency of exocrine pancreatic function ( decreased production of enzymes involved in the digestion process in the duodenum), then he may prescribe pancreatin as treatment. The main thing in this case is to correctly assess the expected effect of treatment and potential risk for a child.

During pregnancy, you can take pancreatin in the following cases:

• chronic pancreatitis;
• gastritis with low acidity;
• indigestion due to liver, gallbladder or biliary tract disease;
• x-ray or ultrasound examination abdominal organs.

Chronic pancreatitis
Chronic pancreatitis is a fairly common pathology in which, as a result of a long-term inflammatory process, the pancreas is exposed to various pathological changes (replacement of functional connective tissue, narrowing of the excretory duct of the pancreas, its wrinkling, as well as the appearance of stones in it). In chronic pancreatitis, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is observed. It is in this case that the body additionally needs enzymes from outside. It should be noted that pancreatin is prescribed only for chronic processes and is strictly contraindicated for acute pancreatitis or during exacerbation chronic pancreatitis (may cause complications of the disease).

Gastritis with low acidity
Gastritis with low acidity is a type of inflammation of the gastric mucosa, which is characterized by a decrease in the production of hydrochloric acid and gastric enzymes ( this type gastritis is also called hypoacid). Normally, the stomach produces the enzyme pepsin, which greatly contributes to the breakdown of proteins into individual amino acids. When acidity decreases, pepsin remains inactive ( pepsinogen is not converted to active pepsin) and is unable to perform its functions, as a result of which protein foods remain incompletely digested and are poorly absorbed.

Digestive disorders due to liver, gallbladder or biliary tract disease
Pancreatin can also be prescribed for pathologies in which there is a violation of the outflow and stagnation of bile in the gallbladder ( biliary dyskinesia, inflammation of the gallbladder, hepatitis). These changes occur quite often during pregnancy ( cholecystitis), because gallbladder extremely sensitive to various changes in hormonal levels. Ultimately, insufficient bile penetrates the duodenum and does not participate in the digestion process. Normally, bile is needed to emulsify fats, and it also ensures the replacement of gastric digestion to intestinal ( reduces acidity and eliminates the effect of pepsin on pancreatic enzymes), enhances motor skills small intestine, and also has some bactericidal effect ( neutralizes pathogens that have entered the gastrointestinal tract). It is worth noting that in this case ( in the absence of gallstones) Pancreatin is prescribed along with bile, which is contained in such drugs as enzistal, digestal, festal, etc.

X-ray or ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs
Pancreatin promotes normal digestion and to a certain extent facilitates the visualization of organs located in the abdominal cavity ( normalizes digestion and eliminates food accumulation in the stomach and intestines).

The daily and single dosage is selected by the attending physician depending on the current disease, as well as the degree of insufficiency of the exocrine function of the pancreas. This medicine is prescribed during or immediately after meals, and it is not recommended to chew it. Pancreatin should be taken with a large glass of water ( 200 – 250 milliliters).

At what age can pancreatin be given to children and in what dosage?

Quite often, various digestive disorders occur in childhood, including those due to insufficiency of pancreatic function. These disorders can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heaviness in the abdomen, and also contribute to weight loss. Such symptoms may occur due to a lack of production of digestive enzymes by the pancreas. Pancreatin contains the entire necessary set of enzymes ( amylase, lipase, protease), which are necessary for normal digestion of food. Given enzyme preparation promotes the absorption of nutrients ( proteins, fats and carbohydrates) in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract.

Pancreatin can be prescribed to children starting from one year of age. It is highly not recommended to give it to children under this age, as there is a possibility of individual intolerance to some components of the medicine ( on excipients contained in the pancreatin shell). Also, taking pancreatin in infancy can lead to intestinal obstruction. Most often it is prescribed to children who have already reached the age of two or three years.

One important point should be mentioned. Under no circumstances should the tablet or capsule be divided into several parts. The fact is that pancreatin enzymes are quickly neutralized in the acidic environment of the stomach, while the special shell of the drug ( enteric coated) protects these enzymes from the harmful effects of hydrochloric acid. After passing through the stomach and reaching the duodenum, this membrane dissolves and releases the entire set of enzymes necessary for digestion.

Children are advised to take a microgranular form of pancreatin rather than regular tablets or capsules. In this form of medication, the enzymes are contained in acid-resistant microtablets or microspheres with a diameter of less than 2 millimeters, which are much easier for children to take.

It should be noted that the dosage and course of treatment for the child are selected only by the attending physician. The doctor is based on the degree of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency ( How impaired is the function of digestive enzyme synthesis?), and also takes into account the age of the child. Up to one and a half years old, a child should receive up to 50,000 units of pancreatin per day, and from one and a half years to eighteen - up to 100,000 units. The medication is taken during or immediately after meals. Take pancreatin with a large glass of water or fruit juice.

What does pancreatin contain?

Pancreatin is an enzyme medicine that is used to improve the digestion process. The main components of pancreatin are three pancreatic enzymes, which are necessary for normal digestion of food in the gastrointestinal tract.

Pancreatin contains the following enzymes:

• amylase;
• lipase;
• protease.

Amylase is an enzyme that is capable of breaking down long chains of carbohydrates into smaller fragments. There are three types of amylase - alpha-amylase, beta-amylase and gamma-amylase. Pancreatin contains alpha-amylase, which breaks down starch and dextrins ( starch that has been exposed to saliva) to short chain carbohydrates ( which contain from 3 to 8 glucose residues) and maltose, consisting of two glucose residues ( disaccharide). It is worth noting that this pancreatic enzyme is not capable of hydrolyzing ( split) cellulose or fiber.

Lipase is an enzyme that is involved in the digestion, dissolution, and separation of fats into fractions. Lipase is capable of breaking down lipids ( fats) to glycerol and fatty acids. By breaking down fats, lipase also promotes the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K in the body.

Protease– an enzyme necessary for the breakdown of proteins into individual amino acids. The pancreas synthesizes several types of proteases, each of which breaks down the protein molecule at different sites.

Pancreatin also contains excipients, which are found in some quantities in the shell of the tablet or capsule.

The pancreatin shell may contain the following auxiliary components:

• lactose;
• glucose;
• sucrose;
• starch;
• talc;
• magnesium stearate;
• polyvidone;
• dyes.

Talc used to prevent sticking active ingredients medication, as well as to improve the sliding of tablets or capsules in oral cavity and esophagus.

Magnesium stearate is part of the group of emulsifiers that are necessary for mixing ( homogenization) substances that are normal conditions cannot be mixed.

Polividon is a binding component that improves the solubility and bioavailability of pancreatin due to the formation of water-soluble complexes in the gastrointestinal tract.

Dyes are included in tablets mainly to improve appearance medicine. Most often, brown or pink-red dyes are used in pancreatin.

It is worth noting that in some cases certain excipients contained in pancreatin ( most often magnesium stearate or dyes) may occur drug allergy. If itching occurs, skin rash, pronounced redness of the skin ( erythema) you must completely stop taking the medication and immediately consult a doctor.

Is it possible to combine taking Pancreatin with drinking alcohol?

Pancreatin is a medication containing pancreatic enzymes that improve the digestion process. The use of this enzyme medication together with any alcoholic products is strictly contraindicated. The fact is that alcohol enhances the production of pancreatic and gallbladder enzymes, but at the same time causes spasm of the smooth muscles of the excretory ducts and sphincter of Oddi ( orbicularis muscle, which controls the flow of bile and pancreatic enzymes into the duodenum). This effect on the digestive organs subsequently leads to stagnation of bile in the gallbladder and reverse outflow of pancreatic enzymes ( pancreatic enzymes). As a result, pancreatic enzymes become active and begin to digest the organ's own tissue, which can cause acute pancreatitis. Given pathological condition manifests itself as sudden and intense pain in the upper abdomen ( epigastrium), which most often gives ( radiates) to the left side of the abdomen, as well as repeated vomiting which does not bring relief. The occurrence of these symptoms requires immediate medical care, since in acute pancreatitis there is a release large quantity pancreatic enzymes into the blood. In the future, pancreatic enzymes can reach the liver, kidneys, lungs, heart, brain and cause serious and irreversible damage in them ( it's even possible fatal outcome ). Taking pancreatin in this situation will only worsen pathological disorders.

It is worth noting that the greatest danger is not just drinking alcohol, but its combination with eating fatty and fried foods. In this case, the likelihood of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract ( pancreas, gallbladder) increases significantly.

Pancreatin can be taken in cases where the amount of alcohol taken was insignificant. The medication must be taken during meals or immediately after meals, without chewing tablets or capsules and drinking it with a sufficient amount of liquid ( 200 – 250 milliliters). But it is best to completely stop drinking alcohol if there are any disorders of the pancreas ( even the most insignificant).

Pancreatin LekT is a drug prescribed for pancreatitis or various digestive problems. What is the principle of action of the medicine? To whom and when is it prescribed? How to take pills correctly? What are the contraindications and limitations of Pancreatin-LekT? Features of joint use with other drugs. Does the medicine have analogues?

According to the instructions, Pancreatin-LekT are tablets based on the action of enzymes of animal origin. Thus, they have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the human digestive system.

The active components of the drug include:

• trypsin;
• lipase;
• protease;
• chymotrypsin;
• alpha amylase.

1 tablet contains 900 mg of the enzyme pancreatin. The complex composition provides compensation for the deficiency of digestive enzymes in the body and normalizes their natural production by the pancreas.

The medicine has a complex effect on the body, as a result of which digestion is normalized.

Taking Pancreatin-LekT promotes:

1. Proper breakdown of fats with proteins and other nutrients entering the body with food.
2. Normalization and acceleration of food digestion, which helps improve the general condition of the body.
3. Relief of pain in the epigastric region due to a decrease in the production of enzymes by the pancreas.

After taking the medication, the active substances enter directly into the duodenum, where they participate in the process of processing fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Each tablet is coated with a special protective coating that prevents the drug from dissolving when it enters the stomach.

Before starting a course of treatment, it is important to consult with your doctor. This is due to the fact that any medication has contraindications that must be taken into account, especially if long-term treatment is intended.

The instructions suggest using Pancreatin-LekT for:

1. Impaired enzyme production during exacerbation of chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis or pancreaectomy.
2. Improper absorption of nutrients.
3. Improper bowel function, rapid movement of food and other pathologies.
4. Surgical interventions into the gastrointestinal tract.

Prescription of the drug is permissible for:

• overeating;
• Not proper nutrition;
• inactive lifestyle;
• chewing dysfunction;
• preparation for certain procedures (MRI, radiography, ultrasound).

In cases where indigestion is associated with a heavy meal and is not permanent, the drug can be used once without consulting a doctor. If the violations are regular, a treatment regimen is prescribed by a doctor.

Instructions for use of Pancreatin-LekT do not allow use for:

• the presence of an allergic reaction or intolerance to the components of the tablets;
• exacerbation inflammatory processes;
• intestinal obstruction;
• the presence of urates in the blood;
• chronic pancreatitis in the acute stage;
• childhood (under 3 years).

The absence of a teratogenic effect of the drug has been proven, so it is prescribed to pregnant and lactating women. The medication does not affect concentration.

With long-term treatment with the drug, the patient may experience anemia, impaired secretory function and accumulation of urates.

Doctors do not recommend that people diagnosed with cystic fibrosis use the drug Pancreatin in large dosages. This is due to the possibility of developing fibrous colonopathy in this group of patients.

How much medication can be taken should be calculated by the doctor who prescribes such treatment based on the body’s need for the enzyme that the patient needs for adequate absorption of fats. It is equally important to pay attention to the quantity of food consumed and its quality.

The dosage of Pancreatin-LekT is calculated in accordance with the patient’s condition and the characteristics of the pathology. For an adult, the average daily dose is 150 thousand IU. For children it is lower and depends on the age of the patient and the characteristics of his disease. The frequency of administration depends on the number of meals. You need to take the medicine strictly before meals.

The tablet is taken without chewing, with a sufficient amount of liquid. This will make it possible to reduce the effect of the medication gastric juice. Exceeding recommended doses can lead to constipation, impaired metabolic processes or the appearance of allergies.

Pancreatin-LekT is well tolerated by patients, but it is possible that side effects:

• nausea;
• vomit;
• bowel dysfunction (diarrhea, constipation);
• allergic reaction (itching, skin rash, lacrimation);
• discomfort in the right hypochondrium;
• intestinal obstruction.

If these symptoms are associated with the medication, its daily dosage is reduced or the drug is completely discontinued. Sometimes reveal the relationship discomfort and taking Pancreatin-LecT is difficult, which is due to the fact that pancreatitis in the acute stage has the same symptoms. In such cases, you need to consult a doctor.

In the case of a long course of treatment using medication in high dose The patient may experience hyperuricosuria or detect excessive concentrations of uric acid in the blood plasma. If the tablets are taken by children in excess of the recommended doses, irritation may occur in the perianal area or in the oral cavity.

Studies have proven that the enzymatic preparation taken does not influence the ability to control vehicles or working with machinery.

The effect of the drug on the quality of iron absorption by the body has been proven. Therefore, during long-term therapy, it is necessary to additionally take medications containing iron. Same with folic acid. Simultaneous use Pancreatin-LecT with folic acid leads to a decrease in the absorption of the latter.

Calcium carbonates, antacids or magnesium hydroxide can reduce the effect of Pancreatin-LekT. In such cases, the dosage of the enzyme is increased.

Regarding combination with other medications special instructions No. Simultaneous use of drugs from this group increases the concentration of active components.

Analogs of Pancreatin-LekT are:

• Pancreatin;
• Hermital;
• Creon;
• Mezim;
• Pangrol;
• Enzistal;
• Gastenorm;
• Micrasim.

They differ from Pancreatin-LekT in concentration active substance and additional components. The principle of action on the body is identical.

To avoid development adverse reactions, before taking Pancreatin-LekT, you need to consult a doctor and determine correct dosage. In the treatment of pancreatitis in chronic form, the medicine is prescribed for a period of 3-6 months with the possibility of adjustment.

A woman’s body has to begin restructuring immediately after the egg is fertilized. Active synthesis of the female sex hormone, progesterone, leads to a decrease in the contractile activity of the smooth muscles of the uterus.

Low tone of the reproductive organ helps maintain pregnancy and carry the fetus to term. The digestive organs closest to the uterus also become sluggish and relaxed.

Hence, a woman has difficulty digesting food, especially since its quantity increases. During pregnancy, the amount of calories consumed increases significantly, and the stomach and intestines do not have time to cope with such a volume of work. Therefore, women already have early stages During pregnancy, constipation, nausea, belching, and discomfort occur.

And troubles occur due to the accumulation of unprocessed food residues in the intestines, the decay of which has a negative effect on the digestive system, general condition future mother and fetus.

The gradual growth of the uterus leads to compression of the stomach and intestines, which leads to the release of food debris back into the esophagus. Hence the constant heartburn.

Will pancreatin help cope with problems during pregnancy?

Components of pancreatin, their effects on the body

Basically, the drug consists of pancreatin of animal origin, containing a sufficient amount of pancreatic enzymes:

• lipase;
• alpha amylase;
• trypsin;
• chymotryp-syn.

Pancreatin replenishes the resulting deficiency of pancreatic substances in the body. As a result of using the product, active breakdown of proteins into amino acids, fats into glycerol and fatty acids begins, starch is converted into dextrins and monosaccharides.

Due to the activity of enzymes obtained from the drug, released in the alkaline environment of the small intestine, the digestion process is normalized, pain spasms are relieved after eating, and bloating is eliminated.

The main purpose of Pancreatin is to replace the activity of the pancreas when its functions are weakened as a result of chronic inflammation or the production of digestive enzymes is absent due to a violation of the outflow of pancreatic juice. The cause of the latter may be tumors, stones in bile ducts. The medicine will help in cases where the patient does not have a pancreas after pancreatectomy.

Pancreatin can lead to normal condition the digestive process, when its dysfunction is associated with gastritis, chronic enterocolitis, and liver diseases. If a woman is found to have systemic hereditary disease cystic fibrosis, then a mutation occurs in her body of a protein that takes part in the transport of chlorine ions into tissue cells. This leads to improper functioning of the endocrine glands. People suffering from the disease can drink Pancreatin to stabilize the body.

The benefits and harms of Pancreatin for pregnant women

The multienzyme remedy will help relieve symptoms of pain, heartburn, and bloating in women if they are caused by pancreatic dysfunction. The active substances of the drug will help improve the digestion of food in the case of a sedentary lifestyle of a pregnant woman or dietary errors.

During preparation for ultrasound or x-ray examination It is necessary to put the organs of the digestive system, especially the intestines, in order. And here Pancreatin will help. And since the medicine is protected from the effects of hydrochloric acid of the stomach by the shell, its action begins in the duodenum, where the alkaline environment helps enzymes in their beneficial function.

A woman's hormonal background changes especially dramatically during the third trimester of pregnancy. Progesterone enhances the effect on pancreatic function, inhibiting it. The lack of production of the enzymes lipase, protease and amylase leads to poor-quality processing of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates by the body. A woman begins to feel discomfort after eating, heaviness in the stomach and intestines. Pancreatin enzymes will help relieve negative effects.

But the medicine can be harmful if a woman experiences an exacerbation of pancreatitis during pregnancy:

• Taking pills will only lead to increased pain, spasms in the pancreas and stomach;
• The medicine will cause an increase in the amount of gastric juice, which will help the course of an acute attack;
• It is forbidden to take the medication when there is hypersensitivity to enzymes or intolerance to pork;
• You should not use tablets containing enzymes if you want to relieve constipation symptoms. Typically, this problem occurs due to a decrease in the activity of intestinal smooth muscles, and enzymes will not have a positive effect on it;
• Pancreatin cannot cure nausea and vomiting in pregnant women.

Contraindications to the drug include pregnancy if the woman suffers from anemia. Enzyme substances medication reduce iron absorption, especially with long-term use of replacement therapy.

Self-administration of the drug can lead to undesirable reactions of the body - stool disorders, increased concentration of uric acid, and the appearance of a skin rash. Whether or not a pregnant woman can take this drug should be decided by the doctor, taking into account contraindications and side effects.

Pancreatin during pregnancy: instructions for use

• The tablets are taken during or immediately after meals, without chewing;
• A single dose of Pancreatin ranges from half to one gram;
• You can consume no more than four grams per day;
• The course of therapy ranges from four weeks to two months;
• The medicine must be washed down with a large amount of liquid that does not contain alkali - water, fruit juices.

The drug should be taken only with the permission of a specialist monitoring the course of pregnancy. You should not take the medicine on your own, even if it was prescribed before pregnancy. Adjustment of therapy must be carried out with mandatory regular monitoring the degree of influence of enzymes on the processing of fats, proteins and carbohydrates in the body of the expectant mother.

The result of treatment with Pancreatin during pregnancy

Will Pancreatin help a pregnant woman’s body cope with digestive problems that arise during pregnancy?

In order not to resort to medication, you just need to develop a diet in which the digestive organs will do their job perfectly:

• To do this, you need to exclude sweets, baked goods, and heavy foods from the menu, which lead to gas formation, bloating, and constipation. These include cabbage, garlic, legumes, and radishes. It is not recommended to eat spicy, smoked, salty, fatty foods. There should be less carbonated drinks, coffee, and tea on the table. They can be replaced with juices, compotes, jelly;
• Help in strengthening intestinal motility and eliminating constipation will be provided by daily exercises, walks on fresh air. The attending physician will tell you what exercises to choose for this so as not to harm the unborn baby.

But if you have chronic pancreatitis during pregnancy, you cannot do without replacement therapy. The enzyme in small doses will help the stomach and intestines work, food will be completely processed.

The question of the possibility of using Pancreatin during breastfeeding arises quite often. This drug belongs to the group of digestive stimulants used for enzyme deficiency, which also occurs in chronic pancreatitis. In order to understand whether this drug can be used while breastfeeding, you need to know its composition and mechanism of action, as well as possible side effects.

Pancreatin is safe for a nursing mother and baby, but there are some features of its use

Composition and release form of the drug

The medicine is based on animal enzymes responsible for the breakdown of protein and fats. Pancreatin is available in tablet form. Depending on the manufacturer, each of them contains a certain amount of active ingredient and several auxiliary components.

The action of Pancreatin normally occurs in the intestines, so it is necessary to ensure the release of the active substance in the desired part of the digestive tract.

To protect the active components, the tablets are coated special shell. It protects the enzyme composition from the effects of gastric juice and it begins to act only in the small intestine. Therefore, about 30 minutes pass from the moment of administration to the effect of the drug.

The principle of action of Pancreatin

At normal operation gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and relatively proper nutrition, Pancreatin ensures the digestion of food. It is a collection of pancreatic enzymes. If there is a lack of their production by the organ or excessive consumption of heavy foods, it is required medication assistance. The medicine has the following effects:

• amylolytic – promotes the rapid breakdown of carbohydrates;
• proteolytic – improves protein digestion;
• lipolytic – helps break down fats.

Thus, proteins, fats and carbohydrates are broken down in the duodenum much faster. A complete digestion process is ensured with further assimilation of broken down elements, in which the body receives all the substances it needs.

Pancreatin begins to act in the duodenum - this is where proteins, fats and carbohydrates are broken down

Indications for use

The drug is a stimulant digestive processes. Accordingly, Pancreatin is prescribed for violations natural course digestion of food due to poor nutrition or existing diseases.

Most often, indications for systematic use of the drug are:

• chronic pancreatitis;
• pancreatectomy;
• cystic fibrosis;
• dyspepsia;
• infectious diarrhea;
• flatulence;
• resection of the stomach or intestines;
• pathologies of the gallbladder and efferent ducts;
• recovery of the body after irradiation.

Pancreatin is prescribed for disorders arising from various reasons and on various stages digestion process

Long-term use is indicated for chronic disorder production of digestive enzymes. Basically, such conditions are directly or indirectly associated with diseases of the pancreas. In this case, it is assigned replacement therapy, but the decision on the need for its introduction is made only by the doctor.

It is possible to use Pancreatin once or undergo short courses of therapy.

Basically, such cases are associated with the need to pass medical examination(intestinal degassing is carried out), as well as by consuming large amounts of fatty foods, meat and other heavy foods.

Restrictions and contraindications for use

Special restrictions for admission this drug are not isolated. Pancreatin performs natural functions, namely, it stimulates digestion.

Despite the safety of the drug, sometimes it is worth refraining from treatment

However, in some cases its use is considered contraindicated. This:

• intolerance to the components of the drug;
• acute pancreatitis;
• period of exacerbation of chronic pancreatitis;
• acute hepatitis;
• intestinal obstruction;
• age up to 2 years.

Inflammation of the pancreas is often provoked by an increase in the secretion of enzymes, so until the condition normalizes, there is no need to take the drug.

The medicine should be used with extreme caution in children. During this period, the activity of the child’s gastrointestinal tract is not yet fully formed, and the introduction of extraneous stimulants can provoke a decrease in the natural secretory function of the pancreas.

Pancreatin is not contraindicated for children, but you should consult your doctor before taking it

Features of reception during breastfeeding

Since during pregnancy, changes occur in a woman’s body under the influence of stress and increased load, eating habits change, and digestive problems may arise after childbirth. In this case, taking Pancreatin is quite acceptable, even during lactation. Side effects can also occur during breastfeeding, although restrictions associated specifically with it are not highlighted.

Before taking the product, a nursing mother should consult a doctor, including checking with a pediatrician about the possibility of taking Pancreatin.

After agreeing on the possible risks and benefits, a final decision is made to prescribe therapy. In order not to harm the child, which is unlikely in any case, it is advisable to use small doses of the drug. It is necessary to monitor the reaction of the baby and the mother’s body when taking the medicine. If suspicious symptoms occur, enzyme intake during breastfeeding is limited or completely stopped.

Any change in the condition of a nursing mother or child is a reason to discontinue the drug

Rules of use and dosage

The specific dosage, dosage regimen and duration of therapy are prescribed by the doctor, focusing on the patient’s health condition and other related circumstances. The tablets are taken before meals without chewing. It is recommended to drink the product with a sufficient volume of liquid, preferably ordinary or alkaline mineral water.

You need to drink Pancreatin three to six times a day. The dose varies from 0.25 to 0.5 g. It is not recommended to exceed the permissible limits, especially if you have cystic fibrosis. For chronic pancreatitis, the duration of therapy can range from 2–3 months to several years.

If you use the medicine for quite a long time without special indications, there is a risk of the pancreas stopping the independent production of digestive enzymes.

Cases of overdose are rare. If the permissible amount of Pancreatin is exceeded, stool disorders are observed (usually constipation, especially in children) and the formation of stones due to the increased concentration of uric acid.

Constipation in children may be a consequence of overuse of the drug

Side effects and interactions with other drugs

In most cases, Pancreatin does not cause unpleasant consequences and is well tolerated by the patient's body. Basically, the occurrence of side effects is associated with violation of the rules of administration and dosage, as well as individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

The following manifestations are possible from the digestive system:

• nausea;
• diarrhea or constipation;
• discomfort in the epigastric region (“in the pit of the stomach”);
• intestinal obstruction;
• irritation around the anus.

In addition, long-term use of Pancreatin provokes the development of anemia. The reason for these consequences is the ability of the drug to influence the absorption of iron and folic acid. In turn, antacids, tannins and alcohol medicines reduce the activity of pancreatin.

With long-term use of Pancreatin, it is necessary to periodically monitor the levels of hemoglobin and red blood cells in the blood to avoid the development of anemia

If negative consequences occur, including due to overdose, the drug is temporarily stopped and symptomatic treatment is prescribed.

Alternatives to the drug

Pancreatin is the main thing active substance, an enzyme isolated from animal organs. Therefore, it may be included in other drugs.

Among Pancreatin analogues, the most commonly used drugs are:

• Mezim;
• Creon;
• Pangrol;
• Festal;
• Hermital.

Pangrol is an analogue of Pancreatin, in which the active substance is enclosed in a gelatin capsule

In some cases, doctors insist on limiting intake medicines while breastfeeding, or the woman refuses medication for some reason. In these cases, a nursing mother should direct efforts to normalize nutrition in order to restore digestion processes naturally.

To do this, you must adhere to the following recommendations:

• Drink enough fluids.
• Reduce consumption of fatty and difficult-to-digest foods, sweets, spicy and salty foods.
• Introduce fermented milk products into your diet if your body accepts them well.
• To improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and protect the stomach during pancreatitis, you can eat flaxseed or oatmeal broth, jelly, and liquid porridge.
• In the morning, it is recommended to drink a tablespoon of milk thistle seeds with water, which can be ground in a coffee grinder or chewed thoroughly.

Treatment with Pancreatin can be supplemented or replaced with herbs or folk remedies allowed during breastfeeding

• Move more, play sports, walk in the fresh air. This will benefit both mother and child.
• Be less nervous, as stress negatively affects digestion, production breast milk and the condition of the whole organism.

The use of traditional methods requires prior approval and consultation of the treating doctor - therapist or gastroenterologist.

In general, the use of Pancreatin for the treatment of digestive disorders is completely safe and justified, even during lactation. In any case, to eliminate the risk of negative consequences treatment must be carried out under the supervision of a qualified physician.

From the video you will learn how to combine treatment various drugs and breastfeeding:

Formula, chemical name: enzyme preparation from the pancreas of cattle and pigs.
Pharmacological group: Metabolics/enzymes and antienzymes.
Pharmacological action: replenishes the deficiency of pancreatic enzymes.

Pharmacological properties

Pancreatin contains excretory enzymes of the pancreas: alpha-amylase, lipase, chymotrypsin, trypsin, promotes the breakdown of proteins into amino acids, fatty acids and glycerol of fats and monosaccharides and dextrins of starch, normalizes the processes of food digestion. The enzymes contained in pancreatin are protected by the shell from the influence of gastric juice and are released only in the alkaline environment of the small intestine. Trypsin inhibits stimulated pancreatic secretion in the upper part of the small intestine, thereby determining the analgesic effect of pancreatin.

Indications

Digestive insufficiency in violation of the exocrine function of the pancreas: chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, dyspepsia, pancreatectomy, flatulence, Roemheld syndrome; chronic diseases in the system biliary tract and liver; intestinal infections; disorders of food absorption (accelerated passage of food through the intestines, condition after resection of the small intestine and stomach, errors in diet when taking indigestible, unusual or fatty foods, nervousness, etc.); to degas the intestines before diagnostic studies(ultrasound, x-ray and others).

Method of administration of pancreatin and dose

Pancreatin is taken orally, without chewing, before meals, with a large amount of alkaline liquid (fruit juice, water). Depending on the severity of digestive disorders, the dose is set. Usually 3–6 times a day, 0.25–0.5 g. The duration of therapy ranges from several days (for example, in case of digestive disorders due to errors in diet) and up to several months and even years (when replacement therapy is necessary ).

It is not recommended to exceed daily dose pancreatin, especially in patients with cystic fibrosis. For long-term treatment, it is necessary to prescribe iron supplements. Disorders of the digestive system may develop in patients with hypersensitivity to pancreatin, or in patients with a history of bowel resection or meconium ileus.

Contraindications for use

Hypersensitivity (including pork intolerance), exacerbation of chronic pancreatitis and acute pancreatitis.

Restrictions on use

No data available.

Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding

The use of pancreatin during pregnancy is possible if the expected effects of treatment in the mother are higher possible risk for the fetus (the safety of using pancreatin during pregnancy has not been sufficiently studied). During breastfeeding the use of pancreatin is not contraindicated.

Side effects of pancreatin

Digestive system: diarrhea, discomfort in the stomach, constipation, nausea, symptoms of intestinal obstruction;

metabolism: with prolonged use of high doses of the drug, the development of hyperuricosuria and an increase in the content of uric acid in the blood plasma is possible;

others: allergic reactions, perianal irritation.

Interaction of pancreatin with other substances

Pancreatin reduces iron absorption (especially with prolonged use). When using Pancreatin together with antacids that contain magnesium hydroxide and/or calcium carbonate, the effectiveness of Pancreatin may be reduced.

Overdose

In case of an overdose of pancreatin, the following develop: hyperuricemia, hyperuricosuria, constipation is possible in children. Discontinuation of the drug and symptomatic therapy are necessary.