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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking pancreatin (Hi-Vegi-Lip, Pancreatin 4X)?

You should not take pancreatin if you are allergic to pork proteins, or if you are also taking any of the following medications:

• amylase;
• pancrelipase (Cotazym, Creon, Kutrase, Lipram, Panokase, Ultrase); or
• miglitol (Glyset).

If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication. Before using pancreatin, tell your doctor if you have:

• a sudden onset of pancreatitis; or
• worsening of chronic pancreatic disease.

This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether pancreatin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take pancreatin (Hi-Vegi-Lip, Pancreatin 4X)?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Pancreatin is usually taken with meals and snacks. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Take pancreatin with a full glass of water.

Do not hold the pancreatin tablet in your mouth. The medication may irritate the inside of your mouth.

It is important to use pancreatin regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Do not change brands of pancreatin without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist. Some brands of pancreatin are interchangeable while others are not. Ask your pharmacist which brands or generic forms can be substituted for another.

Pancreatin may be only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes a special diet. It is very important to follow the diet plan created for you by your doctor or nutrition counselor. You should become very familiar with the list of foods you should eat or avoid to help control your condition.

Call your doctor if your condition does not improve, or if it gets worse while you are taking pancreatin.

Store pancreatin at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

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