General Description: Pancreatic enzymes are used in dogs and cats for the treatment of pancreatic insufficiency disorder (PID) or maldigestion syndrome. The powder or tablets are given with each meal.
What is this drug?
A collection of secretions (enzymes) from the pancreas (usually pork) that are given to pets whose pancreas has stopped functioning. These enzymes are needed to help digest fat, protein and carbohydrates.
Pancreatic enzymes are given by mouth
Reasons for prescribing:
To treat Pancreatic Insufficiency Disorder (PID)
To help your pet gain weight lost due to PID
What dogs/cats should not take this medication?
Pets allergic to pork
If your pet has had an allergic reaction to pancreatic enzymes or like products before
Directions:
Read and follow the label carefully. Give the exact amount prescribed. It is given with each meal and is usually given for the life of the pet. Powder: Mix the prescribed dose in your pet’s food. If feeding dry food, moisten the food with warm water and then add the enzymes. Allow this mixture to stand 15-20 minutes before feeding your pet. Tablets should be given with each meal. Feeding several small meals a day is usually found to be most helpful. As your pet’s diarrhea improves, your veterinarian may decrease the dose to the least amount that prevents diarrhea and allows your pet to gain weight. Call ahead for refills.
What if a dose is missed?
If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you can, regardless of feeding status. If it is time already for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time.
What to tell/ask veterinarian before giving medication?
Talk to your veterinarian about:
When will your pet need to be rechecked
What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this drug
What are the risks and benefits of using this drug
Tell your veterinarian about:
If your pet has experienced side-effects on other drugs/products
If your pet has experienced liver or kidney disease now or ever
If your pet has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever
All medicines and supplements that you are giving your pet or plan to give your pet, including those you can get without a prescription. Your veterinarian may want to check that all of your pet’s medicines can be given together.
If youR pet is pregnant or nursing or if you plan to breed your pet
Storage and Warnings:
Store in a tight, light resistant, childproof container in a cool, dry place at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight. Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets. Inhalation of the powder can be irritating to both human and animal lungs and throats and may cause an asthma attack. Do not inhale this powder nor allow your pet to inhale the powder. Powder will burn or irritate skin on contact. Wash your skin or your pet’s skin immediately upon contact. Wash your hands after handling this product. Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take this product.
Potential side effects:
If any of the following side effects occur, contact your veterinarian immediately: hives, difficult breathing, swelling (lips, tongue or face)
May cause mouth irritation if it hasn’t been mixed well with moistened food and allowed to stand
High doses may cause nausea, cramping, diarrhea or vomiting
If these symptoms persist or you notice anything else unusual, contact your veterinarian
Can this drug be given with other drugs?
Yes, but possible interactions may occur with antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors, vitamins or supplements.
If your pet experiences any unusual reactions when taking multiple medications, contact your veterinarian.
Overdosing?
Contact your veterinarian immediately if pet eats more than the prescribed amount.
