When managing conditions that require pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, such as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), understanding your medication is crucial. CREON® is a commonly prescribed pancreatic enzyme product that helps your body digest fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Alongside its effectiveness, it’s important to be aware of key safety information and available support programs like the Creon Care Forward Program. This program is designed to assist patients throughout their CREON treatment journey, ensuring they have the resources and information needed for optimal care.
Before starting or continuing CREON, it’s vital to understand the essential safety guidelines. CREON carries a risk of a rare bowel disorder known as fibrosing colonopathy. To minimize this risk, strictly adhere to your healthcare professional’s (HCP) dosing instructions. Should you experience any unusual or severe symptoms such as stomach area (abdominal) pain, bloating, difficulty passing stool, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, contact your HCP immediately. Being proactive and informed is a key aspect of the CREON Care Forward Program, empowering patients to recognize and respond to potential issues promptly.
Prior to taking CREON, ensure your HCP is fully informed about your medical history and current medications. This includes disclosing any allergies, particularly to pork (pig) products, as CREON is derived from porcine pancreatic enzymes. Mention any history of intestinal blockage, scarring, or thickening of the bowel wall (fibrosing colonopathy), gout, kidney disease, or high blood uric acid (hyperuricemia). Inform your HCP if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or plan to breastfeed. The CREON Care Forward Program emphasizes open communication with your healthcare team, facilitating informed decisions about your treatment.
Taking CREON correctly is essential for both its effectiveness and your safety. Always take CREON with a meal or snack, accompanied by enough liquid to swallow the capsules whole. Never crush or chew CREON capsules or their contents, as this can lead to mouth irritation or alter the medication’s intended action. If you have difficulty swallowing capsules, consult your HCP or the CREON Medication Guide for alternative administration methods. The CREON Care Forward Program may offer resources or guidance to help patients manage their medication effectively, including tips for proper administration.
Like all medications, CREON has potential side effects. While generally well-tolerated, it’s important to be aware of possible adverse reactions. Serious side effects associated with CREON can include an increase in blood uric acid levels (hyperuricemia), which may manifest as pain, stiffness, redness, or swelling in your joints. Allergic reactions are also possible, presenting as breathing difficulties, skin rashes, swollen lips, or itching. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. The CREON Care Forward Program encourages patients to be vigilant about monitoring for side effects and promptly reporting them to their HCP.
Common side effects of CREON may 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 are typically less severe, it’s still important to be aware of them. The CREON Care Forward Program aims to provide holistic support, potentially including resources to help patients manage common side effects and improve their overall well-being during treatment.
It’s worth noting that CREON and similar pancreatic enzyme products are derived from the pancreas of pigs, the same animals used for pork consumption. While the manufacturing process includes steps to minimize risks, there remains a theoretical possibility of viral transmission from porcine-derived products, although this has never been reported. The CREON Care Forward Program, while focused on patient support, underscores the importance of understanding the nature of your medication and discussing any concerns with your HCP.
To report negative side effects of prescription drugs, including CREON, you are encouraged to contact the FDA through their MedWatch program at www.fda.gov/medwatch. You can also call 1-800-FDA-1088.
For individuals facing financial challenges in affording their medication, the CREON Care Forward Program, in conjunction with AbbVie’s patient support resources, may offer assistance. Visit AbbVie.com/PatientAccessSupport to explore available options and learn more about how the program can help manage the cost of CREON. The CREON Care Forward Program is committed to ensuring that patients have access to the medication they need, and financial assistance is a key component of this support.
Understanding both the safety information and the support available through the CREON Care Forward Program empowers patients to navigate their treatment journey with confidence and improved well-being. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and to determine if CREON and the CREON Care Forward Program are right for you.
