Kreon (Pancreas Powder)

Kreon is a pancreatic enzyme preparation that supports digestion in conditions with impaired pancreatic function.

• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency: improves digestion of fats, proteins and carbohydrates in patients with insufficient pancreatic enzyme production.
• Cystic fibrosis: provides necessary digestive enzymes to manage malabsorption associated with the disease.
• Chronic pancreatitis: aids nutrient absorption by supplementing deficient pancreatic enzymes.

• Pancreas Powder contains a blend of lipases, proteases and amylases that replicate normal pancreatic secretions. After oral intake, the enteric‑coated formulation releases the enzymes in the duodenum, where they hydrolyze dietary triglycerides, proteins and starches, facilitating absorption of fatty acids, amino acids and glucose.

Kreon may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and reversible.

Common Side Effects

• Abdominal discomfort or pain
• Flatulence or gas
• Oily or fatty stools (steatorrhea)
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reactions including rash, itching or swelling
• Anaphylaxis (severe allergic response)
• Severe abdominal pain or pancreatitis exacerbation
• Intestinal obstruction or blockage
• Severe hypocalcemia due to fat malabsorption

Before prescribing Kreon, clinicians should consider several safety measures.

• Dose adjustment: individualize based on clinical response and dietary fat intake.
• Monitoring: regularly assess nutritional status, weight gain and stool characteristics.
• Contraindications: avoid in patients with known hypersensitivity to porcine-derived enzymes.
• Pregnancy and lactation: use only if clearly needed after risk‑benefit evaluation.
• Drug interactions: be aware that antacids or proton‑pump inhibitors may reduce enzyme activity.
• Store at room temperature below 25°C: keep in the original container, protect from moisture.

Kreon can interact with other medicines, affecting its efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: may inactivate pancreatic enzymes.
• Proton‑pump inhibitors: can reduce enzyme activity by altering gastric pH.
• Cholestyramine or other bile‑acid sequestrants: may bind enzymes and diminish effectiveness.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Oral corticosteroids: may increase risk of gastrointestinal irritation.
• Broad‑spectrum antibiotics: alterations in gut flora could affect enzyme activity.
• Warfarin: monitor INR as changes in fat absorption may influence vitamin K levels.