Pangrol (Pancreas Powder From Porcine)

Pangrol is used to address disorders of the digestive system that involve insufficient pancreatic enzyme activity.

• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency: Improves digestion of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.
• Chronic pancreatitis: Aids nutritional absorption when pancreatic function is compromised.
• Cystic fibrosis related pancreatic insufficiency: Supports enzyme replacement therapy for better nutrient uptake.

• Pancreas powder from porcine provides a mixture of digestive enzymes—including amylase, lipase and proteases—that act in the intestinal lumen to hydrolyze dietary macronutrients. By supplementing the endogenous enzyme pool, it facilitates the breakdown and absorption of fats, proteins and carbohydrates, compensating for deficient pancreatic secretion.

Adverse reactions to pancreatic enzyme powders are generally mild and related to the gastrointestinal tract.

Common Side Effects

• Abdominal discomfort: Mild cramping or bloating.
• Flatulence: Increased intestinal gas.
• Nausea: Transient feeling of queasiness.
• Diarrhea: Loose stools, often mild.
• Constipation: Harder stools in some patients.
• Stomatitis: Irritation of the mouth lining.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: Rash, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Fibrosis of the intestinal mucosa: Rare thickening of intestinal tissue.
• Pancreatitis flare: Exacerbation of underlying pancreatic inflammation.
• Obstructive intestinal blockage: Rare mechanical blockage from thickened secretions.

When using pancreatic enzyme powder, consider the following safety measures:

• Dose adjustment: Tailor the amount to individual digestive needs and clinical response.
• Monitoring: Regularly assess nutritional status and symptom control.
• Drug interactions: Review concomitant medications for potential enzyme binding.
• Pregnancy and lactation: Use only if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare professional.
• Storage: Store below 25°C: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Pancreatic enzyme powders can interact with several oral medications, affecting absorption or efficacy.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: Reduce enzyme activity by increasing gastric pH.
• Proton pump inhibitors: May diminish enzyme activation in the duodenum.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Oral anticoagulants: Potentially altered absorption may affect INR levels.
• Antibiotics such as tetracycline: May bind to enzymes and reduce their effectiveness.
• Fat‑soluble vitamin supplements (A, D, E, K): May require dosage adjustment due to enhanced absorption.