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Home > Drug Category > Disorders of the Digestive Tract (IBS,Crohns Disease,Stomach) > Creon and Equivalent

Creon Information

Creon (Pancreatic Enzymes (Lipase, Protease, Amylase) is used to treat exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. In this condition, the pancreas (a gland behind the stomach) doesn't produce enough digestive enzymes. These enzymes are crucial for breaking down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates from food into smaller molecules that the body can absorb. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency can result from various diseases such as cystic fibrosis, chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or after pancreatic surgery. Without sufficient enzymes, individuals with this condition experience malabsorption, leading to symptoms like chronic diarrhea, gas, bloating, abdominal pain, and weight loss due to poor nutrient absorption. Creon is a pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy that contains the active ingredient pancrelipase, which is a combination of three essential digestive enzymes: lipase, protease, and amylase. These enzymes are extracted from the pancreas of pigs. Creon works by supplementing the body's deficient enzymes. When taken with meals and snacks, the capsules release tiny, enteric-coated spheres. This special coating allows the enzymes to pass through the acidic environment of the stomach unharmed. Once in the more alkaline environment of the small intestine, the coating dissolves, releasing the lipase, protease, and amylase. These enzymes then interact with the food, actively breaking down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, much like a healthy pancreas would. By providing these essential enzymes, Creon helps individuals with pancreatic insufficiency to digest and absorb nutrients from their food properly. This action also helps to alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms associated with malabsorption and improve their overall nutritional status and quality of life.

Creon Side Effects

Like all medications, Creon may cause some side effects. Some common side effects include bloating, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, nausea, sore throat, cough, and vomiting. Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Abdominal pain;
• Body rash;
• High blood uric acid levels (hyperuricemia), including pain, stiffness, redness, or swelling of your joints;
• Irritation around the anal area;
• Signs of viral infection such as fever, chills, sore throat;
• Symptoms of high blood sugar, such as frequent urination, increased thirst;
• Symptoms of low blood sugar such as cold sweat, cool pale skin, and headache

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Creon Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to pancrelipase, porcine protein (pork), or any other ingredients in Creon. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Acute pancreatitis;
• Bowel problems;
• Diabetes;
• Gout;
• High blood uric acid;
• Kidney disease

Consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Creon may interact with other medications or substances, such as acarbose, iron supplements (e.g., ferrous fumarate and ferrous sulfate), and vitamin and mineral supplements. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications, that you are taking before starting Creon to prevent potential drug interactions. Ensure you take Creon with a meal or immediately after a meal as directed by your doctor. Doing so ensures that enzymes are present to interact with the food and facilitate digestion. It's imperative to swallow the capsules whole with plenty of liquid. Do not crush, chew, or hold the capsules in your mouth, as this can irritate your mouth and prevent the enzymes from working effectively. If you are having difficulty swallowing, you can open the capsule and sprinkle the contents into a small amount of soft, acidic food, such as applesauce. However, this mixture should be consumed wholly and immediately swallowed. Refer to the leaflets in the medication pack for additional usage information. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Creon?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Creon.