Are many people unable to take pancreatic enzymes due to side effects?

Posted by rjbusher @rjbusher, Jun 8 10:19am

I was diagnosed with pancreatic insufficiency six years ago. I have a cyst and chronic pancreatitis. Creon helped me gain weight and become healthy again, but it always caused pain. I've switched to ZenPep. Now, I can't take any enzymes without pain on the right side of my back at the bottom of my ribcage and wrapping around to the front on the right side. My question is: Are there many people who can't take enzymes because of side effects and do you know doctors working in this area. Thank.

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Profile picture for venture @venture

If your lactase test shows your pancreatic enzymes are low, you must replace them. Only Prescription enzymes(Creon, Zenpep,etc.) activate after leaving your stomach - aka.(delayed release) to copy what your pancreas does past the stomach. “Vital Nutrients” likely cannot replace those enzymes because your stomach acid kills any enzymes not in a delayed release format.

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@venture
Then I would have no viable course of action. And that may very well be.

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Profile picture for venture @venture

If your lactase test shows your pancreatic enzymes are low, you must replace them. Only Prescription enzymes(Creon, Zenpep,etc.) activate after leaving your stomach - aka.(delayed release) to copy what your pancreas does past the stomach. “Vital Nutrients” likely cannot replace those enzymes because your stomach acid kills any enzymes not in a delayed release format.

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@venture Sorry, I ment ELASTASE test… aka enzyme test

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I can't do enzyme replacement because of side effects. I'm trying acupuncture, reflexology, QiGong & Chinese herbs. According to my acupuncturist pancreatic enzyme deficiency is caused by dampness in the body. I'm having success trying these procedures. My GP is happy with the results I'm experiencing.

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Do you understand having EPI means your pancreas enzyme count is low. And causing non-absorption of nutrients often resulting in diarrhea because of undigested fat. Severe EPI is nothing to guess at. There aren’t any over the counter enzymes that help. I have pain once in a while because of non- efficient #2. My friend had most of his pancreas removed. Result= EPI. Acupuncture isn’t replacing his inability to make enzymes. I take Zenpep and vitamins.

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