Indications
Pertzye is a prescription medicine used to treat exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) due to cystic fibrosis or other conditions where the pancreas cannot make or does not release enough digestive enzymes into the small intestines to digest food.
Pertzye is a mixture of enzymes, including lipases, proteases, and amylases, and its dosing is based on lipase units. Pertzye comes in delayed-release capsules that are meant to be taken with meals and snacks. The enzymes in the capsule should help break down the fats, proteins, and carbohydrates in food so that the body can absorb them properly.
Use and Dosage
Pertzye comes in the form of Delayed Release Capsules and is taken with meals or snacks. To take Pertzye, swallow the Capsules whole with meals and snacks as directed by your doctor. Do not crush or chew the capsules, as this can irritate the mouth and affect the medication's effectiveness.
If you have trouble swallowing, you may open the capsule and mix the contents with a small amount of liquid or soft food that you do not need to chew, like room-temperature applesauce. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice on which foods or liquids to avoid when mixing. Swallow the mixture immediately without chewing, and then drink water or juice to ensure you have swallowed all the medication.
Be sure to take Pertzye regularly as prescribed by your doctor, and do not take more capsules in a day than recommended. Drink plenty of fluids while taking Pertzye unless instructed otherwise and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about your treatment or experience any side effects. If a dose is missed, take the next dose with the next meal or snack as directed. Do not take two doses at one time.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Pertzye (Lipase/Protease/Amylase):
- Abdominal pain
- Allergic reactions (trouble breathing, skin rash, itching, or swollen lips)
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Increased uric acid levels in the blood
- Indigestion
- Irritation of the inside of the mouth
- Upset stomach
Forms and Strength
Pertzye (Lipase/Protease/Amylase) is available in the following forms and strength:
Pertzye: Delayed Release Capsule
- 4000/14375/15125units
Cautions
- Exercise caution when doses exceed 2,500 lipase units/kg body weight per day. High-dose use of pancreatic enzyme replacement has been associated with fibrosing colonopathy.
- Pertzye is not substitutable with other pancrelipase products.
- There is limited data on the use of Pertzye in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Consult with a healthcare provider before taking Pertzye if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Chewing or retaining Pertzye in the mouth can cause irritation of the oral mucosa. Follow the instructions for taking Pertzye as directed by a healthcare provider to avoid any potential side effects or complications.
- Pertzye can interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants and iron supplements. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking.
- When Pertzye is taken, Hyperuricemia may develop. Consider monitoring uric acid levels in patients with hyperuricemia, gout, or renal impairment.
- Exercise caution when administering pancrelipase to a patient with a known allergy to proteins of porcine origin.
- Alcohol may interact with Pertzye and affect its effectiveness. Consult with a healthcare provider before drinking alcohol while taking Pertzye.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can children take Pertzye?
Yes, Pertzye can be taken by children with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency caused by cystic fibrosis or other conditions. The dosage may be adjusted based on the child's weight and needs.
Do I need a prescription to take Pertzye?
Yes, Pertzye requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.
How long does it take for Pertzye to work?
Pertzye begins to work immediately after being taken with a meal or snack, but the full effects may not be noticeable for several days.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Pertzye?
If you miss a dose of Pertzye, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Resources
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-161114/pertzye-oral/details
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/022175s003lbl.pdf
- https://www.rxlist.com/pertzye-drug.htm
- https://www.drugs.com/dosage/pertzye.html
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=481eec00-9abf-11dd-b71c-0002a5d5c51b
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