Indications
Creon 3000 is an oral medication used to treat exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, which occurs when the pancreas is unable to make or release enough digestive enzymes into the small intestines to properly digest food. Creon 3000 contains pancreatic enzymes and is taken with meals and snacks to aid in the digestion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
Creon 3000 works by providing pancreatic enzymes to the body in cases where the pancreas is not producing enough enzymes on its own. It contains 3,000 lipase units, which helps to break down fats in the body. It is typically used in conditions where the pancreas cannot make or does not release enough digestive enzymes into the small intestines to digest food.
Use and Dosage
Creon 3000 comes as Delayed Release Capsule to take by mouth with meals and snacks as directed by your doctor. Swallow the capsule whole without crushing or chewing it and avoid keeping it in your mouth as this can irritate your mouth and affect the medication's effectiveness.
If swallowing is difficult, the capsule may be opened and its contents mixed with a small amount of liquid or soft food that does not require chewing, such as room-temperature applesauce. However, do not mix the contents with alkaline food or liquid, such as milk or ice cream, and consult your doctor or pharmacist for information on any foods or liquids to avoid when mixing.
After swallowing the mixture, make sure to drink a glass of water or juice and do not save the medication for later use. Take the medication regularly with the prescribed dosage based on your medical condition, diet, weight, and response to treatment. Drinking plenty of fluids is also important unless advised otherwise.
Follow a special diet, if recommended by your doctor, to get the most benefit from the medication. Do not change the brand or dosage without consulting your doctor or pharmacist as different products may contain varying amounts of digestive enzymes.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Creon 3000 (Pancreatic enzyme):
- Abdominal cramps
- Bloating or gas
- Constipation
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Greasy stools
- Headache
- Itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- Nausea
- Rash
- Rectal irritation
- Severe dizziness
- Stomach pain or upset
- Trouble breathing
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
Serious Side Effects of Creon 3000 (Pancreatic enzyme):
- Allergic reaction
- Fibrosing colonopathy (scarring or narrowing in your colon).
- Frequent/painful urination
- Joint pain
- Severe constipation
- Severe stomach/abdominal discomfort
- Viral infection
Forms and Strength
Creon 3000 (Pancreatic enzyme) is available in the following forms and strength:
Creon 3000: Delayed Release Capsule
- 3000/9500/15000 units
Cautions
- Allergic reaction: Creon 3000 may cause an allergic reaction in some individuals. Signs of an allergic reaction may include rash, hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or chest tightness.
- Fibrosing colonopathy: High-dose use of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, including Creon 3000, may be associated with fibrosing colonopathy, a rare but serious gastrointestinal disorder. Patients using Creon 3000 should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of fibrosing colonopathy.
- Other medical conditions: Creon 3000 may not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical conditions, including acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, or a history of intestinal obstruction.
- Potential drug interactions: Creon 3000 may interact with other medications, including antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors.
- Capsule integrity: The integrity of the Creon 3000 capsule should be checked before each dose, and any damaged capsules should be discarded.
- Gout: Creon 3000 may increase the risk of gout in certain individuals. Patients with a history of gout should be closely monitored while using Creon 3000.
- Diabetes: Creon 3000 may affect blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. Patients with diabetes should closely monitor their blood sugar levels while using Creon 3000.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of Creon 3000 during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should talk to their doctor before using Creon 3000.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I crush or cut Creon 3000 capsules?
No, you should not crush or cut the capsules. This can damage the medicine and make it less effective.
How long does it take for Creon 3000 to work?
Creon 3000 typically starts working within 30 minutes to 1 hour after taking it, but individual response may vary. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response to the medicine.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Creon 3000?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Creon 3000?
Avoid alcohol while taking Creon 3000 as it can worsen certain side effects, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.
How long should I take Creon 3000?
Creon 3000 is usually taken long-term or indefinitely, as it is often prescribed for chronic conditions such as cystic fibrosis or pancreatic cancer. Talk to your doctor about the appropriate duration of treatment for your condition.
Resources
- https://www.abbvie.com/content/dam/abbvie-com2/pdfs/pap/gastro-health-application.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-152580/creon-oral/details
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/020725s016lbl.pdf
- https://www.creoninfo.com/
- https://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/creon_medguide.pdf
- https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/drug-encyclopedia/drug.creon-3-000-unit-9-500-unit-15-000-unit-capsule-delayed-release.565325
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