Pancreatin

Pancreatin is a mixture of several digestive enzymes produced by the exocrine cells of the pancreas. It is composed of amylase, protease and lipase. This mixture is used to treat conditions in which pancreatic secretions are deficient, such as surgical pancreatectomy, pancreatitis and cystic fibrosis.

Composition

Pancreatin is a mixture of several digestive enzymes produced by the exocrine cells of the pancreas. It is composed of amylase, protease and lipase.

• Amylase is responsible for breaking down carbohydrates into sugars which are easier for the body to absorb.
• Protease helps in the digestion of proteins.
• Lipase is used for fat breakdown.

Uses

Pancreatin is used to treat conditions in which pancreatic secretions are deficient, such as surgical pancreatectomy, pancreatitis and cystic fibrosis. It has been claimed to help with food allergies, celiac disease, autoimmune disease, cancer and weight loss. Pancreatin is sometimes called "pancreatic acid", although this is a misnomer, as it is neither a single chemical substance nor an acid.

Pancreatin in the pharmaceutical industry

Pancreatin is a medication, often sold under the brand name Creon. In the pharmaceutical industry, pancreatin is used to test for adequate mixing in food fortification applications.

Side effects

Common side effects of pancreatin include gastrointestinal upset, such as bloating, gas, or stomach pain. Less common side effects include rash, hives, or difficulty breathing.

See also

• Pancreas
• Digestive enzyme
• Exocrine gland

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