Pancreatic enzyme supplements
Also known as: Lypex, Panzym, Pro-Enzorb
**Administration:** Mix the prescribed amount of powder or capsule contents thoroughly with your pet's food for *every* meal. There is no need to let the food 'sit' or pre-incubate before feeding. Ensure your pet drinks water or eats food immediately after to wash the enzymes down and prevent mouth sores. **Safety Warning:** Wash your hands after handling the powder to avoid skin irritation. **Do not inhale the powder**, as it can irritate your airways or trigger asthma. **Expectations:** This is typically a lifelong treatment. Your vet will help you find the lowest effective dose based on your pet's stool quality and weight gain.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI)
- Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI)
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Contact dermatitis of the lips (with powdered non-coated enzymes)
- Offensive body/fecal odour
- Oral or oesophageal ulcers (with non-coated enzymes)
- Diarrhoea (at high doses)
- GI cramping (at high doses)
Cautions & contraindications
- > **Handler Safety:** Powder spilled on hands should be washed off immediately to prevent skin irritation. **Avoid inhaling powder** as it causes mucous membrane irritation and may trigger asthma attacks in susceptible individuals. These risks are generally not associated with enteric-coated granules. > **Patient Safety:** Non-coated pancreatic enzymes may cause oral or oesophageal ulcers; dosing must always be followed with food or water.
Drug interactions
- Antacids (magnesium hydroxide, calcium carbonate): May diminish the effectiveness of the pancreatic enzymes
Frequently asked questions
What is Pancreatic enzyme supplements used for in pets?
**Administration:** Mix the prescribed amount of powder or capsule contents thoroughly with your pet's food for *every* meal. There is no need to let the food 'sit' or pre-incubate before feeding. Ensure your pet drinks water or eats food immediately after to wash the enzymes down and prevent mouth sores. **Safety Warning:** Wash your hands after handling the powder to avoid skin irritation. **Do not inhale the powder**, as it can irritate your airways or trigger asthma. **Expectations:** This is typically a lifelong treatment. Your vet will help you find the lowest effective dose based on your pet's stool quality and weight gain.
Is Pancreatic enzyme supplements safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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