Pancreatic Enzymes

Pancreatic enzymes help digest proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in food. These enzymes are secreted into the small intestine through a tube called the pancreatic duct. They also aid in the digestion of meals in patients with cystic fibrosis or other diseases affecting the function of the pancreas.

Information on Pancreatitis

What Are Pancreatic Enzymes?

Pancreatic enzymes aid in the digestion of meals in patients who have diseases affecting their pancreatic function. They are usually taken by those with cystic fibrosis or chronic pancreatitis.

Understanding the Pancreas

The pancreas is a large gland behind the stomach and close to the duodenum, the upper part of the small intestine. The pancreas secretes digestive enzymes (lipase, protease, and amylase) into the small intestine through a tube called the pancreatic duct. These enzymes help digest fats, proteins, and carbohydrates in food.

Ingredients in Pancreatic Enzymes

Pancreatic enzymes contain the ingredients pancreatin and pancrelipase, both of which contain the enzymes lipase, protease, and amylase. These enzymes break down fats (lipase), proteins (protease), and complex carbohydrates (amylase) to allow absorption of these nutrients into the body.