Mezym (Pancreas Powder From Porcine)

Mezym provides exogenous pancreatic enzymes to support digestion in conditions characterized by enzyme deficiency.

• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency: improves digestion of fats, proteins and carbohydrates, reducing steatorrhea and nutritional deficiencies.
• Cystic fibrosis: supplies necessary enzymes to compensate for pancreatic dysfunction, enhancing nutrient absorption and growth.
• Chronic pancreatitis: aids in maintaining adequate digestion when pancreatic tissue is damaged, helping to prevent malnutrition.

• Mezym delivers a mixture of pancreatic enzymes—including amylase, lipase and proteases—directly to the gastrointestinal tract. These enzymes catalyze the hydrolysis of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, respectively, facilitating their breakdown into absorbable molecules and compensating for the deficient endogenous pancreatic secretion in affected patients.

Mezym may cause adverse reactions that vary in frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Abdominal discomfort: mild pain or cramping after ingestion.
• Flatulence: increased gas production due to altered digestion.
• Nausea or mild vomiting: occasional upset stomach.
• Diarrhea or loose stools: rapid transit from excess enzyme activity.
• Constipation: occasional reduced bowel movements.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis requiring immediate medical attention.
• Persistent abdominal pain: may indicate underlying complications.
• Unexplained weight loss: could signal inadequate absorption despite therapy.
• Pancreatitis flare: rare worsening of pancreatic inflammation.
• Respiratory distress: extremely rare, may accompany an allergic response.

Before initiating Mezym, consider the following precautions.

• Assess pancreatic function: confirm enzyme deficiency through clinical evaluation.
• Monitor for allergic reactions: discontinue if signs of hypersensitivity appear.
• Adjust dose based on clinical response: titrate to achieve optimal digestion.
• Avoid use in patients with known hypersensitivity to porcine proteins.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Mezym can interact with other medications, affecting its efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: may bind enzymes and reduce their activity.
• Protease inhibitors: can diminish the proteolytic action of the supplement.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Oral contraceptives: may experience altered absorption; monitor efficacy.
• Warfarin: monitor INR as changes in vitamin K absorption could affect anticoagulation.
• Antibiotics such as tetracycline: may bind to enzymes; assess therapeutic outcomes.