Generic name: pancreatin [ pan-kree-a-tin ]
Drug class: Digestive enzymes
Availability: Rx and/or otc
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
Brand names: Pancreatin 4x, Pancreatin
What is Hi-vegi-lip?
Hi-Vegi-Lip is a combination of digestive enzymes (proteins). These enzymes are normally produced by the pancreas and are important for digesting fats, proteins, and sugars.
Hi-Vegi-Lip is used to replace digestive enzymes when the body does not have enough of its own. Certain medical conditions can cause this lack of enzymes, such as cystic fibrosis, pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or pancreas surgery.
Hi-Vegi-Lip may also be used to treat a condition called steatorrhea (loose, fatty stools).
Hi-Vegi-Lip may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not take Hi-Vegi-Lip if you are allergic to pork proteins, or if you have a sudden onset of pancreatitis or worsening of a long-term problem with your pancreas.
How should I take Hi-vegi-lip
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Hi-Vegi-Lip should be taken with a meal or snack.
Take Hi-Vegi-Lip with a full glass of water.
Do not hold the tablet in your mouth. The medicine may irritate the inside of your mouth.
Do not crush, chew, or break a Hi-Vegi-Lip tablet. Swallow it whole.
To be sure this medicine is helping your condition, you may need frequent blood tests. You may not notice any change in your symptoms, but your blood work will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with Hi-Vegi-Lip.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using Hi-Vegi-Lip.
Hi-Vegi-Lip may be only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes a special diet. Follow the diet plan created for you by your doctor or nutrition counselor. Get familiar with the list of foods you must eat or avoid to help control your condition.
Use Hi-Vegi-Lip regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely. You may need to use this medicine for the rest of your life.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
If your doctor changes your brand, strength, or type of pancreatin, your dosage needs may change. Ask your pharmacist if you have any questions about the new kind of pancreatin you receive at the pharmacy.
Dosing information
Before Taking
You should not take Hi-Vegi-Lip if you are allergic to pork proteins, or if you have a sudden onset of pancreatitis or worsening of a long-term problem with your pancreas.
To make sure Hi-Vegi-Lip is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
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gout;
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asthma; or
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any allergies.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Hi-Vegi-Lip will harm an unborn baby. Do not use Hi-Vegi-Lip without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether pancreatin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Always take Hi-Vegi-Lip with food.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while using Hi-vegi-lip?
Do not take any other digestive enzymes unless your doctor tells you to.
Avoid taking an antacid within 1 hour before or after you take Hi-Vegi-Lip.
Hi-vegi-lip side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Hi-Vegi-Lip may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:
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severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
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severe stomach pain;
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swollen or painful joints; or
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any changes in your symptoms.
Common side effects of Hi-Vegi-Lip may include:
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nausea, mild stomach pain;
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diarrhea; or
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mild skin rash.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Hi-vegi-lip Side EffectsWhat other drugs will affect Hi-vegi-lip?
Other drugs may interact with pancreatin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.