Drugs & Vitamins

Pancrelipase Powder Active Ingredients: Pancrelipase Powder Representative Names: Viokase Powder What is pancrelipase powder? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I take this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with pancrelipase? What side effects may I notice from taking pancrelipase? What should I watch for while taking pancrelipase? Where can I keep my medicine? What is pancrelipase powder? (Back to top) PANCRELIPASE (Viokase®) powder improves your digestion of foods by replacing digestive enzymes. Digestive enzymes are substances produced by an organ called the pancreas; some health problems that cause the body to produce less of these enzymes. You may need to take pancrelipase if you have cystic fibrosis or chronic inflammation of your pancreas, have had your pancreas removed, or have had certain types of stomach or intestinal surgery. Generic pancrelipase powders are not available. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •acute pancreatitis •difficulty swallowing •esophagitis (inflammation of the tube leading from the mouth to the stomach) •history of bowel obstruction •frequent surgeries of the stomach or bowel •an unusual or allergic reaction to pancrelipase, pancreatin, pork, pork protein, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives •pregnant or trying to get pregnant •breast-feeding How should I take this medicine? (Back to top) Take pancrelipase powder by mouth. Do not breathe in the powder. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take pancrelipase just before or with food. Mix the powder with small amounts of fruit juice or soft foods that do not require chewing such as applesauce, instant pudding or gelatin. Do not mix in milk, ice cream, or other dairy products. Swallow the dose right away; do not chew or hold the dose in your mouth. Drink plenty of water or juice after the dose. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Pancrelipase is often prescribed for children with specific health problems that impair their digestion. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children if you have questions. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. What drug(s) may interact with pancrelipase? (Back to top) •acarbose •antacids containing calcium or magnesium •iron salts •miglitol Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects may I notice from taking pancrelipase? (Back to top) Side effects are rare at recommended doses. Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: •diarrhea (severe or continuing) •mouth irritation •muscle aches or pains •nausea, vomiting •skin rash •stomach pain •swelling •shortness of breath What should I watch for while taking pancrelipase? (Back to top) Ask your prescriber or health care professional before you change your brand of pancrelipase. Each brand of pancrelipase contains different amounts of enzymes and may not give the same results. Take care not not to breathe in the pancrelipase powder; this can irritate the lungs and could cause an asthma attack. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Follow the instructions of your health care professional regarding your diet. Do not hold the powder in your mouth; the enzymes may cause mouth sores. Do not take antacids containing calcium or magnesium. If you spill pancrelipase powder on your hands and skin, rinse off with plenty of water. It may cause irritation, itching, or burning. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open. Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F); do not refrigerate or freeze. Protect from moisture. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Last Updated:08/21/2005 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.