Pancreatic proteases (Porcine) (PEP)

Porcine pancreatic proteases, primarily comprising trypsin, chymotrypsin, and elastase, are essential digestive enzymes used therapeutically in the form of pancrelipase to manage pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (PEI). These enzymes are extracted from the porcine pancreas and function by catalyzing the hydrolysis of dietary proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids within the duodenum. This process is critical for patients who cannot produce sufficient endogenous enzymes due to conditions such as cystic fibrosis, chronic pancreatitis, or surgical resection of the pancreas. By restoring the ability to digest proteins, these enzymes prevent malabsorption, malnutrition, and associated gastrointestinal symptoms. Therapeutic use often requires enteric coating to protect the enzymes from gastric acid, ensuring they reach the small intestine in an active state. Efficacy is typically monitored through clinical markers of nutrition and specific diagnostic tests like fecal elastase levels.

Other names

PancrelipasePancreatinPorcine trypsinPorcine chymotrypsinPorcine elastasePancreatic enzyme products

Hydrolysis of peptide bonds in dietary proteins and peptides into smaller absorbable units (amino acids and small peptides) within the small intestine.