How does CREON work?
CREON replaces pancreatic enzymes
CREON (pancrelipase) is a pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, or PERT, that works by replacing the 3 pancreatic enzymes normally made by a healthy pancreas.
Your pancreas normally releases these enzymes every time you eat, which is why you need to take CREON every time you eat. Timing is key. For CREON to work as expected, it needs to be taken with every meal and snack.
Lipase
Amylase
Protease
breaks down
fats
breaks down carbohydrates (sugars)
breaks down
proteins
CREON in action
Click through the steps below to follow CREON as it journeys from the mouth to the small intestine.
CREON is taken with food
CREON capsules are taken with meals and snacks, so they can enter the stomach at the same time as food.
CREON is released in the stomach
CREON capsules release tiny, coated spheres containing pancreatic enzymes—amylase, lipase, and protease.
CREON dissolves in the small intestine
CREON spheres dissolve at the starting point of the small intestine, called the duodenum.
CREON goes to work in the small intestine
In the small intestine, CREON enzymes work to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates (sugars) in foods.
I take 3 CREON capsules with every meal and 2 capsules with every snack. I carry CREON with me everywhere I go. I remember to bring my CREON with me because I know how important it is for managing malabsorption.
- Mark B. EPI patient
Still not exactly sure how CREON works?
Watch this short video to get a better idea and see why CREON needs to be “on board” with your food.
Record your treatment progress and daily routine using the Treatment Tracker.
Answers to frequently asked questions
CREON dosing
If your doctor prescribes you CREON, they will choose a dose that is specific for you based on different factors.