Creon (Pancrelipase)

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What is Creon used for?

Creon contains digestive enzymes that help the body process protein, fats and starches from food. It is often recommended when the pancreas cannot produce the proper amount of protein to digest food. It occurs in the small intestine and often happens due to cystic fibrosis, pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer.

Creon (Pancrelipase) Information

How does Creon work?

Creon works by replacing the natural pancreatic enzymes that help digest food. It is derived from the pancreas of pigs.

How do you use Creon?

The capsules are taken hole by mouth with snacks and meals. Follow your doctor or pharmacist's instructions to ensure that this is used properly. You should not crush, chew or split the capsules. This can cause irritation and affect how the medication affects the digestive process.

If you cannot swallow the capsule whole, your doctor may provide a list of soft foods that you can empty the capsules into. If you take the medication this way you should ingest the mixture right away. Do not prepare it ahead of time. Drink a small glass of water or juice to make sure you ingest all of the medicine.

Your dose is based on your condition, weight, diet, and history of treatment. Make sure that you take this as directed to see the best result. You may be prescribed a diet as well as the drug. You would need to follow this diet as well.

There are numerous doses and forms of this drug. Make sure you are taking the correct product to ensure you are getting the proper level of enzymes.

Creon Precautions and Warnings?

All orders from Sunshine Pharmacy are delivered in the manufacturer's packaging and include a medication guide. We ask that you carefully read this information sheet and call us if you have any questions or do not understand the document.

Before you begin treatment with Creon you should advise your doctor if you have a history of pancreas problems such as short term or chronic pancreatitis (swelling of the pancreas), kidney disease, intestinal problems or hyperuricemia.

Advise your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It may be harmful to an unborn child or pass on to breast milk.

What Drugs Interact with Creon?

There are potential known drug interactions associated with Creon. You should disclose all of your current vitamins, supplements, OTC drugs, herbal products and all current prescription medicines. Our pharmacists will provide therapeutic screening for all orders against this supplied list.

Call your doctor or seek immediate medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction or drug interaction.

What are the Side Effects of Creon?

We do not list all possible known side effects.You may experience a side effect that is not provided here. If you find that you are noticing severe side effects call your doctor or one of our pharmacists for counseling and medical advice.

Your doctor will normally balance the benefits of treatment versus any possible adverse reactions. Please call us and speak to the pharmacist if you have concerns about buying Creon online.

  • excess air or gas in the stomach or intestines
  • bloated feeling
  • increased thirst
  • feeling of fullness
  • runny nose
  • flushed, dry skin
  • depression
  • increased urination
  • muscle aches
  • frequent bowel movements
  • chills
  • loss of consciousness
  • fruit-like breath odor
  • fever
  • unexplained weight loss
  • passing gas
  • vomiting
  • headache
  • anxiety
  • dry mouth
  • shakiness
  • sweating
  • confusion
  • sore throat
  • slurred speech
  • increased hunger
  • cold sweats
  • cool, pale skin
  • Blurred vision
  • Abnormal feces
  • seizures
  • nightmares

Is there a generic Creon?

There is currently no generic equivalent available in Canada at this time.

Creon (Pancrelipase) FAQs

Will I gain weight on creon?

You are likely to gain weight while taking Creon. While this will likely help you get to a healthy weight you should contact your doctor if you notice a startling change in your weight.

Does Creon affect blood sugar?

Depending on your diet it may either raise or lower your blood sugar. Individuals with diabetes should take extra steps to monitor your blood sugar levels.

Do I need to take Creon with a banana?

Creon should be taken with food. This could either be a full meal or a snack. Some foods such as fruits or nuts may not require enzymes. Talk to your doctor to determine if there are any exceptions.

Can you buy Creon over the counter?

Creon is a “prescription required” medication. You would need to get a prescription to order it from a licensed pharmacy.

How long does it take for Creon to start working?

The medication works very quickly. The medicine is effective for one hour after taking it. If you wait longer than an hour after taking your dose to eat, you may need to take another dose before eating.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended as supplementary information to that provided by your doctor. The guidance provided by your doctor supersedes any information provided on the website. Do not avoid or disregard any counseling from your licensed medical professional based on this information. If you have any medical questions that are not answered here, we do offer counseling from a licensed pharmacist.