
columbiasurgery.Pain is one of the most common and challenging complaints doctors are called upon to treat.

Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT). You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Ingredients and dosages in these products may differ from batch to batch. OTC digestive enzymes are not classified as medications, so they don’t require FDA approval before going on the market. They may be made from animal pancreases or plants such as molds, yeasts, fungi, or fruit. OTC enzyme supplements can be found wherever dietary supplements are sold, including online. Your doctor will want to start you at the lowest possible dose and make adjustments as needed. These medications are usually coated to prevent stomach acids from digesting the medication before it reaches the intestines.ĭosage varies from person to person based on weight and eating habits. Some prescription enzymes contain pancrelipase, which is made up of amylase, lipase, and protease. They’re subject to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval and regulation. These medications are usually made from pig pancreases. Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) is available only by prescription. Replacement enzyme medications and supplements come in many forms with varied ingredients and dosages. A shortage of protease can lead to allergies or toxicity in the intestines. It also helps keep bacteria, yeast, and protozoa out of the intestines. This enzyme breaks down proteins into amino acids. If you don’t have enough lipase, you’ll be lacking in fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K. This works with liver bile to break down fats. Insufficient amylase can lead to diarrhea. This enzyme breaks down carbohydrates, or starches, into sugar molecules. If you don’t take replacement digestive enzymes with food, they won’t be of much use. For example, if you’re eating a large meal that takes longer than usual to eat, or if you’re a slow eater, your doctor may recommend taking half the dose at the start of the meal and the rest halfway through your meal.


In some cases, you may break up the dose. That way, they can do their work as food hits your stomach and small intestine. Then the nutrients are absorbed into your body through the wall of the small intestine and distributed through the bloodstream.Īs a result, replacement digestive enzymes can help prevent malabsorption and related digestive discomforts.īecause they’re meant to mimic your natural pancreatic enzymes, replacement digestive enzymes must be taken just before you eat. Replacement digestive enzymes take the place of natural enzymes, helping to break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins from the foods you eat. This can lead to malnutrition as well symptoms such as bloating, cramping, gassiness, and diarrhea.

When the pancreas doesn’t naturally secrete digestive enzymes, it affects your body’s ability to break down the foods you eat and absorb nutrients.
