How does CREON work?
CREON replaces pancreatic enzymes
CREON (pancrelipase) is a pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, or PERT, that works by replacing the 3 main pancreatic enzymes normally made by a healthy pancreas.
A healthy pancreas normally releases these enzymes every time you eat, which is why you need to take CREON every time you eat. Timing is key. For CREON to work as expected, it needs to be taken with every meal and snack.
Lipase
Amylase
Protease
breaks down
fats
breaks down carbohydrates (sugars)
breaks down
proteins
CREON in action
See CREON's journey from the mouth to the small intestine.
CREON capsules are taken with meals and snacks so they can enter the stomach at the same time as food.
CREON capsules release tiny, coated spheres containing pancreatic enzymes.
CREON spheres dissolve at the starting point of the small intestine, called the duodenum.
In the small intestine, CREON enzymes work to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates (sugars) in food.
I take 3 CREON capsules with every meal and 2 capsules with every snack. I carry CREON with me everywhere I go. I remember to bring my CREON with me because I know how important it is for managing malabsorption.
- Mark B. EPI patient
Answers to frequently asked questions
CREON dosing
When prescribing CREON, your doctor will choose a dose that is specific for you based on different factors.