What You Need to Know About CREON: Essential Safety Information
When it comes to managing your health, especially conditions that require medications like CREON, being well-informed is paramount. CREON is a prescription medicine used to treat exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). It’s crucial to understand not just how CREON works, but also important safety information and potential side effects. Alongside medication, a proactive health strategy, which we can think of as a Care Forward Program, is vital for ensuring the best possible outcomes.
It’s important to be aware that CREON, while beneficial, has important safety considerations. One of the most significant is the potential risk of fibrosing colonopathy, a rare bowel disorder. To minimize this risk, it’s essential to strictly adhere to the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare professional (HCP). If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating, difficulty passing stool, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, it’s critical to contact your HCP immediately. Prompt communication and action are key components of a successful care forward program.
Before starting CREON, open and honest communication with your HCP is crucial. This is a cornerstone of any effective care forward program. You should inform your HCP about all medications you are currently taking and any pre-existing medical conditions. Specifically, it’s important to mention if you have allergies to pork products, as CREON is derived from pigs. Additionally, disclose any history of intestinal blockage, bowel wall scarring or thickening (fibrosing colonopathy), gout, kidney disease, or high blood uric acid (hyperuricemia). For women, it’s vital to discuss if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed. This comprehensive disclosure is a proactive step in your care forward program.
Taking CREON correctly is also a vital aspect of your care forward program. Always take CREON exactly as prescribed by your HCP. It should always be taken with a meal or snack and with enough liquid to ensure you swallow the capsules whole. It’s crucial not to crush or chew CREON capsules or their contents, as this can cause mouth irritation or alter how the medication works in your body. If you have difficulty swallowing capsules, consult your HCP or the CREON Medication Guide for alternative methods of administration. Following these instructions carefully is a key part of your ongoing care forward program.
Like all medications, CREON may have potential side effects. Some serious side effects to be aware of include an increase in blood uric acid levels (hyperuricemia), which can manifest as pain, stiffness, redness, or swelling in your joints. Allergic reactions are also possible, and symptoms can include breathing difficulties, skin rashes, swollen lips, or itching. If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention and inform your HCP right away. Being vigilant about potential side effects and knowing when to seek help is an essential element of a responsible care forward program.
Common side effects of CREON can include fluctuations in blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia), stomach pain, frequent or abnormal bowel movements, gas, vomiting, dizziness, sore throat, and cough. While these side effects are generally less severe, it’s still important to be aware of them and discuss any concerns with your HCP as part of your care forward program.
It’s also important to remember that CREON and similar pancreatic enzyme products are derived from pigs, which can carry viruses. Although the risk is considered very low and viral infections from these products have never been reported, there remains a theoretical possibility of viral transmission. This is a factor to be aware of as part of a comprehensive understanding within your care forward program.
This information is not exhaustive, and there may be other possible side effects of CREON. For complete information, always consult your HCP or pharmacist. You are encouraged to report any negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. You can visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1‑800‑FDA‑1088.
For individuals struggling with the cost of CREON, AbbVie may offer patient assistance programs. Visiting AbbVie.com/PatientAccessSupport can provide more information about these resources. Accessing available support is another practical aspect of a holistic care forward program.
In conclusion, managing your health with CREON involves more than just taking medication. It necessitates a comprehensive care forward program that includes understanding the medication, communicating openly with your healthcare provider, adhering to prescribed dosages, being vigilant about potential side effects, and seeking support when needed. By actively engaging in your health management, you can optimize the benefits of CREON and promote your overall well-being.
