Heptakos

Uses

L-Ornithine-L-Aspartate / Pancreatin is used for the treatment, control, prevention, & improvement of the following diseases, conditions and symptoms:

• Hepatic encephalopathy
• Digestion of food
• Inflammatory disease of the pancreas

Heptakos 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 Heptakos 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

Heptakos dosage

1-2 tablets daily

Side Effects

The following is a list of possible side-effects that may occur in medicines that contain L-Ornithine-L-Aspartate / Pancreatin. This is not a comprehensive list. These side-effects are possible, but do not always occur. Some of the side-effects may be rare but serious. Consult your doctor if you observe any of the following side-effects, especially if they do not go away.

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal
• Stomach pain
• Bloating
• Diarrhea

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

Before using L-Ornithine-L-Aspartate / Pancreatin, inform your doctor about your current list of medications, over the counter products (e.g. vitamins, herbal supplements, etc.), allergies, pre-existing diseases, and current health conditions (e.g. pregnancy, upcoming surgery, etc.). Some health conditions may make you more susceptible to the side-effects of the drug. Take as directed by your doctor or follow the direction printed on the product insert. Dosage is based on your condition. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens. Important counseling points are listed below.

• Avoid taking higher quantity than recommended dose
• Avoid use of this drug if allergic to it
• Consult your doctor before taking the drug in case of pregnancy or lactation
• Drink plenty of water when taking pancreatin
• Need doctor's consultation in abdominal cramps, blood in stools and loose motions
• Planning to get pregnant or breastfeeding

Interaction

If you use other drugs or over the counter products at the same time, the effects of L-Ornithine-L-Aspartate / Pancreatin may change. This may increase your risk for side-effects or cause your drug not to work properly. Tell your doctor about all the drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are using, so that you doctor can help you prevent or manage drug interactions. L-Ornithine-L-Aspartate / Pancreatin may interact with the following drugs and products:

• Herbal products
• Over-the-counter medicines
• Prandase
• Precose
• Vitamins

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.

Contraindication

Hypersensitivity to L-Ornithine-L-Aspartate / Pancreatin is a contraindication. In addition, L-Ornithine-L-Aspartate / Pancreatin should not be used if you have the following conditions:

• Gastrectomy
• Hypersensitivity
• Pancreatectomy
• Pregnant

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 Heptakos