Creon

Generic Name: pancrelipase (oral) (pan kre LYE pace)
Brand Names: Cotazym, Creon, Dygase, Ku-Zyme, Kutrase, Lapase, Lipram, Palcaps, Pancrease, Pancrecarb, Panocaps, Panokase, Ultrase, Viokase

What is Creon?

Creon contains pancrelipase - a combination of three enzymes: lipase, protease, and amylase. These enzymes are normally produced by the pancreas and are important in the digestion of fats, proteins, and sugars.

Creon is used to replace these enzymes when the body does not have enough of its own. Certain medical conditions can cause this lack of enzymes, including cystic fibrosis, chronic inflammation of the pancreas, or blockage of the pancreatic ducts.

Creon may also be used for other purposes not listed here.

Important information about Creon

You should not take Creon if you are allergic to pork proteins.

Before taking Creon, tell your doctor if you have a sudden onset of pancreatitis, or worsening of chronic pancreatic disease.

It is important to use Creon regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

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Do not hold the capsule contents in your mouth. The medication may irritate the inside of your mouth.

Do not inhale the powder from a Creon capsule, or allow it to touch your skin. It may cause irritation, especially to your nose and lungs.

If you miss a dose of this medicine, skip the missed dose and wait until your next scheduled dose to take the medicine. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Before taking Creon

You should not take Creon if you are allergic to pork proteins.

To make sure you can safely take Creon, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• a sudden onset of pancreatitis; or

• worsening of chronic pancreatic disease.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Creon will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. It is not known whether pancrelipase passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

See also: Creon pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)

How should I take Creon?

Take Creon exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

It is important to use Creon regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Creon is usually taken with meals. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Do not hold the capsule contents in your mouth. The medication may irritate the inside of your mouth.

You may open the Creon capsule and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of pudding or applesauce to make swallowing easier. Swallow this mixture right away without chewing. Do not save the mixture for later use. Discard the empty capsule.

Do not inhale the powder from a Creon capsule, or allow it to touch your skin. It may cause irritation, especially to your nose and lungs. Store Creon at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medicine in its original container, along with the packet of moisture-absorbing preservative if it was provided with Creon.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose and wait until your next scheduled dose to take the medicine. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include diarrhea or stomach upset.

What should I avoid while taking Creon?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while you are using Creon.

Creon side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious Creon side effects may include:

• nausea or vomiting;

• mild stomach pain or upset;

• diarrhea or constipation;

• bloating or gas;

• greasy stools;

• rectal irritation;

• headache, dizziness;

• cough; or

• weight loss.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

See also: Creon side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect Creon?

There may be other drugs that can interact with Creon. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about Creon.