pancrelipase (Axcan Pharma Inc., 044cb1)

Viokase is a pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) containing a mixture of porcine-derived digestive enzymes, including lipase, amylase, and protease. It is indicated for the treatment of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) associated with chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, pancreatectomy, and other conditions where the pancreas does not produce sufficient enzymes. Unlike many other PERT products, Viokase is a non-enteric-coated formulation, meaning the enzymes are released in the stomach and are susceptible to degradation by gastric acid; therefore, it is typically co-administered with a proton pump inhibitor or H2-receptor antagonist to ensure efficacy in the duodenum. The enzymes work by catalyzing the hydrolysis of fats into fatty acids and glycerol, starches into dextrins and sugars, and proteins into peptides and amino acids, thereby facilitating nutrient absorption and reducing symptoms like steatorrhea.

Brand names

ViokaseViokase 8Viokase8Viokase-8Viokase 16Viokase16Viokase-16

Other names

pancreatinpancreatic enzymesporcine pancreatic enzyme concentrate