Creon 25 (Pancreatic enzyme) from Maple Leaf Medications.

What is Creon 25 for?

Creon 25 treats cystic fibrosis and pancreatitis by aiding with digestion. Similar conditions can be treated with Creon 25, so long as a defining feature of the condition is a malfunctioning pancreas resulting in Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency.

Take Creon 25 tablets with a meal or snack or no longer than 30 minutes after eating.

Creon dosages are not interchangeable with other pancrelipase products. Do not attempt to substitute Creon 25 with a similar medication until you have the relevant dosing instructions from your doctor.

These tablets are meant to be swallowed whole with water. Do not crush or split tablets.

The various strengths for this medication are measured using units describing the amounts of each enzyme present in the tablet. For example, Creon 25 mg tablets are described as 25000/25500/1600. This means that there are 25,000 USP units of Lipase, 25,500 USP units of Amylase, and 1,600 USP units of Protease.

What is Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency?

Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) is a health condition provoked by a variety of other conditions, such as cystic fibrosis and pancreatitis. In EPI, there is a lack of presence of the enzymes usually found in the pancreas.

The enzymes in the pancreas are responsible for breaking down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats into smaller compounds that can be absorbed into the body for use. This is a crucial step in metabolizing food.

EPI can cause malnutrition, which in turn can lead to other health complications, including osteoporosis and anemia.

How Does Creon 25 Work?

Creon 25 uses the active ingredient Pancrelipase, which resupplies the pancreas with the enzymes needed to digest the organic material. This contains lipase, proteases, and amylase, the three enzymes used to break down triglycerides, starches, and fats.

Creon 25 Side effects

Fibrosing Colonopathy

Fibrosing colonopathy is a condition that can occur from taking pancreatic enzymes. It is most prominent in cases of cystic fibrosis and occurs due to too much lipase enzyme use. You should talk to your doctor if you notice any signs. The symptoms of Fibrosing Colonopathy are:

• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Bloody stools
• Diarrhea
• Weight gain
• Weight loss

Viral Infection

Although extensive testing and quality assurance are done prior to distribution to mitigate any risk, viral infections can rarely occur from taking this medication due to where the product is sourced from. Watch for signs of a viral infection, including:

• Flu-like symptoms
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Skin rash
• Cold symptoms

Allergic Reaction

If you have a known hypersensitivity to this drug, you should not take it. Allergic reactions can be deadly and require immediate medical attention. Watch for signs of:

• Swelling in the face, throat, or tongue
• Skin rashes, redness, or hives
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

High blood-Uric Acid Levels

This medication can sometimes cause a dangerous increase in the uric acid levels present in the bloodstream. Talk to your doctor right away if you notice signs, including:

• Worsening gout
• Painful or swollen joints

Common Side Effects Include:

• Flatulence (gas)
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Headache
• Dizziness

Storage

Store this medication between 15 and 30°C or at room temperature. Keep out of reach of children.