Heparek

Uses

Children:

• Reduced or absence of pancreatic exocrine secretion
• Cystic fbrosis

Adults:

In the conditions with defcient pancreatic exocrine function such as-

• Following pancreatectomy
• Following total gastrectomy
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Steatorrhea
• Somatostatinoma
• Celiac disease

Heparek is also used to associated treatment for these conditions: Aerophagy, Deficiency Digestive enzymes, Diarrhoea, Dyspepsia, Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency, Flatulence, Gastrointestinal Discomfort, Pancreatic Insufficiency, Post Operative Gas, Pre-operative Gas, Fat malabsorption, Meteorism, Bile Duct Disorders, Carbohydrate Digestion, Digestive Aid, Fat Digestion, Liver Metabolism, Protein Digestion

How Heparek works

Pancrelipase is used to replace the deficiency of pancreatic enzymes. As abovementioned, pancrelipase is formed by a mixture of lipase, protease, and amylase which are able to break down fat, protein, and starches, respectively, in the small intestine. For a more specific description of each mechanism of action, please visit Pancrelipase amylase, Pancrelipase protease and Pancrelipase lipase.

Dosage

Heparek dosage

1-3 tablets daily with meal or as per direction of the physician.

Side Effects

Pancreatin may cause buccal and perianal soreness, particularly in infants. Hypersensitivity reactions have been reported; these may be sneezing, lacrimation or skin rashes.

Toxicity

The studies of the toxicology of pancrelipase are not needed as this drug has been used clinically for a long time. Clinical overdose studies proved no effect on lungs, pancreas, liver and kidneys but it can produce symptoms such as diarrhea or stomach upset. Carcinogenicity studies have not shown any increased incidence with the use of pancrelipase. As pancrelipase is not absorbed, the effect on fetal development or reproduction is not expected.

Precaution

A proper balance between fat, protein and starch intake must be maintained to avoid temporary indigestion.

Interaction

Alkaline media will rupture the enteric coating. As such to prevent bursting out of the content in the stomach Pancreatin should not be used concurrently with antacid.

Volume of Distribution

Pancrelipase acts locally in the GI tract and it is not absorbed in any significant amount thus, the volume of distribution is not relevant.

Elimination Route

Pancrelipase acts locally in the GI tract and it is not absorbed in any significant amount.

Half Life

Pancrelipase acts locally in the GI tract and it is not absorbed in any significant amount thus, the elimination half-life is not relevant.

Clearance

Pancrelipase acts locally in the GI tract and it is not absorbed in any significant amount thus, the clearance rate is not relevant.

Elimination Route

Pancrelipase is entirely eliminated in the feces.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding use

Pregnancy category C. Not known whether Pancreatin is distributed into milk. Caution advised if Pancreatin is used.

Acute Overdose

Excessive dosage may produce a laxative efect. Systemic toxicity does not occur. Very high dosage may cause hyperuricemia and hyperuricos-uria.

Storage Condition

Store in a cool and dry place. Keep out of the reach of children.

Innovators Monograph

You find simplified version here Heparek