Enzyme Suppletion in Exocrine Pancreatic Dysfunction

Summary

Treatment of exocrine insufficiency (EPI) consists of pancreatic enzyme replacement according to the fat intake. Prescribing a sufficient dose of pancreatic enzymes is mandatory for the treatment to be effective. In addition, consultation of a specialized dietician is pivotal to educate patients about the proper use of pancreatic enzymes. However, based on a recent prospective survey in the Netherlands amongst chronic pancreatitis patients, it seems that enzymes are underused and a dietician is seldom consulted. The aim of this study is to assess if there is a difference in efficacy of pancreatic enzymes in a self-dosage regimen after extensive patient-education in comparison to the standard treatment for patients with EPI.

Timeline

Start

2011-10

Primary completion

2013-02

Completion

2013-02

Publications

• Background Ramo OJ, Puolakkainen PA, Seppala K, Schroder TM. Self-administration of enzyme substitution in the treatment of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Scand J Gastroenterol. 1989 Aug;24(6):688-92. doi: 10.3109/00365528909093110.
• Background Czako L, Takacs T, Lonovics J, Lakner L, Dobronte Z, Pronai L, Tulassay Z. [Quality of life in the course of enzyme replacement therapy for chronic pancreatitis]. Orv Hetil. 2002 Jun 23;143(25):1521-7. Hungarian.
• Background Delhaye M, Meuris S, Gohimont AC, Buedts K, Cremer M. Comparative evaluation of a high lipase pancreatic enzyme preparation and a standard pancreatic supplement for treating exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in chronic pancreatitis. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 1996 Jul;8(7):699-703.
• Background Bruno MJ, Tytgat GN. [4 patients with painless diarrhea and weight loss]. Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 1994 Dec 17;138(51):2529-33. No abstract available. Dutch.

Drugs

Indications