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Lipase (Digestive Enzyme Supplement)
Our pancreas is thought to be responsible for the formation of Lipase which is an imperative digestive enzyme. Lipase is needed for splitting dietary fats (lipids) into smaller molecules of fatty acids and glycerol for easy absorption into the intestines. Lipase often is recommended in the clinical or supplementary context to Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT) to individuals whose human bodies are not producing enough natural enzymes to properly digest food.
Therapeutic Uses
EPI, Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency: Restores digestive function in patients with chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis.
Post-Surgical Recovery: Supports digestion for individuals who have undergone pancreatic or gastrointestinal surgery.
Malabsorption Management: Firms other symptoms of fat malabsorption for example oily stool (steatorrhea).
Digestive Comfort: Reduces bloating, gas, and indigestion associated with high-fat meals.
Key Features
High bioavailability: Specifically formulated for surviving stomach acid and only acting in the small intestine.
Natural source: The majority of medical-grade lipase is derived from porcine (pig) pancreas, which bears an intimate resemblance to human enzyme activity.
Synergistic work: Lipase is often combined with Protease (protein) and Amylase (carbohydrate) for complete digestive support.
Dosage Recommendation
Timing: Always take this supplement during meals or snacks. It will not work if taken empty stomach.
Administration: Swallow caplet with cool water. Do not open and sprinkle caplet contents on food or chew because this could irritate the mouth and lower drug effectiveness.
Dosage: The dosage of this medicine is determined by your physician based on the amount and type of fats in meals-not to be changed without consulting him or her.
Safety Details
Water Intake: Increase your water intake in order to avoid constipation.
Allergy Warning: Make sure to tell the prescribing doctor if you have a known allergy to pork products as many lipase formulations are porcine in origin.
Fibrosing Colonopathy: There is the possibility of a rarer condition occurring after long-term ingestion of pancreatic enzymes in too high doses. Make sure to follow the doctor’s orders to the T.
Pregnancy and Nursing: Check with your healthcare provider first before you start taking it while you are still pregnant or nursing.
Common Side Effects
This may include the following, without excluding all:
Mild stomach pain or cramps
Nausea
Occasional diarrhea or constipation
Skin rash (rarer)
Pro Tip: If you experience severe abdominal pain and/or unexplained bowel habit changes, consult your doctor immediately.
Questions abound (FAQs)
Q: Is it possible to cut open the Lipase capsule to make it easier to swallow?
In general, the manufacturers allow you to sprinkle the contents of your capsule over a tiny amount of soft and acidic food like applesauce or yogurt. However, you must swallow this mixture right away, making sure you do not chew on the beads.
Q: Is Lipase a lifetime treatment?
Usually prescribed as a lifelong supplement for chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis, Lipase does come handy to wave off temporary digestive complaints for a short interval, as per your doctor’s advice.
Q: Can Lipase induce reduction in weight?
No, emphatically! Lipase is for helping the body absorb fats and nutrients-not weight loss. So, think twice about using it as a fat burner.
Q: What should I do if I miss a food dose?
If you don’t eat when you should, forget to take your Lipase. Instead, wait for your next meal or munch if this event happens between meals and take it then. No “doubling up” on Lipase doses!
Q: Is Lipase taken with antacids?
Call a registered and licensed pharmacist to let them know everything about the medicines you are on.
