Kreon (Pancreatin)

Kreon is indicated for disorders of exocrine pancreatic function where digestive enzyme supplementation is required.

• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency due to cystic fibrosis: improves digestion and absorption of fats, carbohydrates and proteins.
• Chronic pancreatitis: aids nutrient absorption and reduces steatorrhea.
• Pancreatic cancer: supports digestive function when pancreatic tissue is compromised.
• Post‑pancreatectomy pancreatic insufficiency: replaces missing pancreatic enzymes to maintain nutritional status.

• Pancreatin in Kreon contains lipase, amylase and protease enzymes that are protected by an enteric coating. The coating prevents degradation in the acidic stomach environment and releases the enzymes in the duodenum, where they hydrolyze dietary fats, carbohydrates and proteins, facilitating their absorption in patients with deficient endogenous pancreatic secretion.

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

Common Side Effects

• Abdominal discomfort or pain
• Flatulence or bloating
• Oily or fatty stools (steatorrhea)
• Nausea or dyspepsia
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Mild skin rash

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic reactions such as rash, angioedema or anaphylaxis
• Acute pancreatitis exacerbation
• Intestinal obstruction or ileus
• Persistent severe abdominal pain
• Fecal incontinence
• Severe vomiting or dehydration

Before initiating Kreon, consider the following precautions.

• Dose adjustment: tailor the dose to the individual’s clinical response and nutritional needs.
• Monitor nutritional status: regularly assess weight, growth and fat‑soluble vitamin levels.
• Hypersensitivity: avoid use in patients with known allergy to pork proteins or other components of the formulation.
• Intestinal obstruction: use with caution in patients with known gastrointestinal blockage.
• Pregnancy and lactation: safety has not been established; use only if clearly needed.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Kreon can interact with other medicines, requiring attention to avoid reduced efficacy or increased risk.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Antacids or proton pump inhibitors: may raise gastric pH and impair enzyme activation.
• Orlistat: can bind to pancreatic enzymes and diminish their digestive effect.
• High‑dose antibiotics altering gut flora: may affect enzyme activity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Warfarin: changes in vitamin K absorption could affect anticoagulation control.
• Digoxin: altered intestinal absorption may modify serum levels.
• Statins: potential changes in lipid absorption could influence drug efficacy.