Pancrelipase — What it is and why people take it

Pancrelipase is a prescription mix of digestive enzymes (lipase, protease, amylase) used when your pancreas doesn’t make enough enzymes. Doctors call this exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). If you have chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, had part of your pancreas removed, or certain digestive disorders, pancrelipase helps you digest fats, proteins, and carbs so you absorb calories and nutrients.

How pancrelipase works and when to use it

The pills or capsules contain tiny enzyme beads that break down food in your small intestine. Take them right with meals and snacks — not before or long after. The enzymes act on the food as you eat, which reduces greasy stools, gas, and weight loss from poor absorption. Your doctor will prescribe a dose based on symptoms, weight, and how severe the enzyme deficiency is. Don’t guess — dosing varies a lot between people.

Practical dosing and safety tips

Doses are listed in lipase units. Brands and strengths differ, so follow your prescription and pharmacy instructions. Common rules: take capsules with the first bite of a meal and split with long meals; swallow whole if capsules are enteric-coated. If you can’t swallow capsules, ask your pharmacist about recommended ways to sprinkle microspheres on a small amount of soft food — but never crush enteric-coated beads or dissolve them, since that destroys the protective coating.

If stools stay greasy or you don’t gain weight, your dose may need adjusting. Also, sometimes adding an acid reducer (like a proton pump inhibitor) helps the enzymes work better if stomach acid prevents capsule coating from dissolving at the right time. That’s a decision for your prescriber.

Side effects are usually mild: stomach cramps, constipation, or diarrhea. High enzyme doses in young children have been linked to a rare bowel complication called fibrosing colonopathy, so pediatric dosing is more cautious. If you notice severe belly pain, blood in stools, or allergic symptoms, contact your provider right away.

Watch for nutrition issues: if you have EPI you may need extra fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and regular weight checks. Your doctor may order labs or a stool test to confirm the enzyme therapy is working.

Storage and practical notes: keep capsules in their original container, away from moisture and heat. If you miss a dose, take it with your next meal — don’t double up later. Never share prescription enzymes with others.

Questions to bring to your prescriber: is my dose right? Should I add an acid reducer? Do I need vitamin supplements? If swallowing is hard, ask how to take your specific product safely. Pancrelipase makes meals usable again for many people — but the right dose and follow-up are what make it work well.