Creon

Pancrelipase · Capsule, Delayed Release Pellets · Oral

Prescription (Rx) 2 recalls

Uses

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE CREON ® is indicated for the treatment of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in adult and pediatric patients. CREON is indicated for the treatment of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in adult and pediatric patients.

Dosage and administration

Important Dosing Information ( 2.1 ) CREON is a mixture of enzymes including lipases, proteases, and amylases, and dosing is based on lipase units. Dosing scheme based on actual body weight or fat ingestion. Individualize the dosage based on clinical symptoms, the degree of steatorrhea present, and the fat content of the diet. Do not exceed 2,500 lipase units/kg/meal, 10,000 lipase units/kg/day, or 4,000 lipase units/g fat ingested/day in adult and pediatric patients greater than 12 months of age without further investigation. ( 5.1 ) The total daily dosage in adult and pediatric patients greater than 12 months of age should reflect approximately three meals plus two or three snacks per day. With each snack, administer approximately half the prescribed dose for a meal. Do not substitute other pancreatic enzyme products for CREON. When switching from another pancreatic enzyme product to CREON, monitor patients for clinical symptoms of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and titrate the dosage as needed. Recommended Dosage ( 2.2 ) Adult and Pediatric Patients Greater than 12 Months : The recommended initial starting dosage is: 500 lipase units/kg/meal for adult and pediatric patients 4 years and older. 500 to 1,000 lipase units/kg/meal for adult patients with chronic pancreatitis or pancreatectomy. 1,000 lipase units/kg/meal for pediatric patients greater than 12 months to less than 4 years. Titrate the dosage to either 2,500 lipase units/kg/meal, 10,000 lipase units/kg/day, or 4,000 lipase units/g fat ingested/day. Higher dosages may be administered if documented effective by fecal fat measures or improvement of malabsorption. Pediatric Patients Birth to 12 Months : The recommended dosage is 3,000 lipase units (one capsule) per 120 mL of formula or per breastfeeding. Preparation and Administration Instructions ( 2.3 ) Swallow capsules whole. For patients unable to swallow intact capsule(s), the capsule contents may be sprinkled on soft acidic food (e.g., applesauce, bananas, plain Greek yogurt). Do not crush or chew CREON capsules or capsule contents. Consume sufficient liquids to ensure complete swallowing of CREON. ( 5.2 ) See the full prescribing information for additional information on administering to pediatric patients birth to 12 months. 2.1 Important Dosing Information CREON is a mixture of enzymes including lipases, proteases, and amylases. CREON dosing is based on lipase units. Use either an actual body weight or fat ingestion-based dosing scheme. Start at the lowest recommended dosage and individualize the dosage based on clinical symptoms, the degree of steatorrhea present, and the fat content of the diet. Changes in dosage may require an adjustment period of several days. Do not exceed 2,500 lipase units/kg/meal, 10,000 lipase units/kg/day, or 4,000 lipase units/g fat ingested/day in adult and pediatric patients greater than 12 months of age without further investigation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . The total daily dosage in adult and pediatric patients greater than 12 months of age should reflect approximately three meals plus two or three snacks per day. With each snack, administer approximately half the prescribed CREON dose for a meal. Do not substitute other pancreatic enzyme products for CREON. When switching from another pancreatic enzyme product to CREON, monitor patients for clinical symptoms of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and titrate the dosage as needed. 2.2 Recommended Dosage Adult and Pediatric Patients Greater than 12 Months of Age The recommended oral initial starting dosage is: 500 lipase units/kg/meal for adult and pediatric patients 4 years of age and older. 500 to 1,000 lipase units/kg/meal for adult patients with chronic pancreatitis or pancreatectomy. 1,000 lipase units/kg/meal for pediatric patients greater than 12 months to less than 4 years of age. If signs and symptoms of malabsorption persist, increase the dosage. Titrate to either 2,500 lipase units/kg/meal, 10,000 lipase units/kg/day, or 4,000 lipase units/gram of fat ingested/day. Higher dosages may be administered if they are documented to be effective by fecal fat measures or an improvement in signs or symptoms of malabsorption including measures of nutritional status. Pediatric Patients Birth to 12 Months of Age The recommended oral dosage is 3,000 lipase units per 120 mL of formula or per breast-feeding. 2. 3 Preparation and Administration Instructions Instruct adult and pediatric patients greater than 12 months of age, or their caregivers, of the following: Take CREON during meals and snacks. If a dose is missed, take the next dose with the next meal or snack. Swallow capsules whole. For patients who are unable to swallow intact capsules, carefully open the capsules and sprinkle the entire contents on a small amount of acidic soft food with a pH of 4.5 or less (e.g., applesauce, bananas, plain Greek yogurt). Consume the entire mixture immediately. Do not crush or chew CREON capsules or capsule contents. Consume sufficient liquids (water or juice) to ensure complete swallowing of CREON [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Instruct caregivers of pediatric patients birth to 12 months of age of the following: Immediately prior to each breast-feeding session or each administration of 120 mL of formula, carefully open one CREON capsule (containing 3,000 USP units of lipase) and administer the entire contents using one of the following two methods: Sprinkle on a small amount of acidic soft food with a pH of 4.5 or less (e.g., applesauce, bananas, plain Greek yogurt) being careful not to crush the capsule contents. The entire mixture should be given to the infant immediately. Sprinkle the capsule contents directly into the infant’s mouth. Immediately administer additional breast milk or formula after CREON to ensure complete swallowing of the capsule contents. Do not mix CREON capsule contents directly into a bottle of breast milk or formula.

Dosage forms and strengths

Delayed-release capsules are available in the following strengths: 3,000 USP units of lipase; 9,500 USP units of protease; and 15,000 USP units of amylase in a two-piece capsule with a white opaque cap imprinted with “CREON 1203” and a white opaque body. 6,000 USP units of lipase; 19,000 USP units of protease; and 30,000 USP units of amylase in a two-piece capsule with an orange opaque cap imprinted with “CREON 1206” and a blue opaque body. 12,000 USP units of lipase; 38,000 USP units of protease; and 60,000 USP units of amylase in a two-piece capsule with a brown opaque cap imprinted with “CREON 1212” and a colorless transparent body. 24,000 USP units of lipase; 76,000 USP units of protease; and 120,000 USP units of amylase in a two-piece capsule with an orange opaque cap imprinted with “CREON 1224” and a colorless transparent body. 36,000 USP units of lipase; 114,000 USP units of protease; and 180,000 USP units of amylase in a two-piece capsule with a blue opaque cap imprinted with “CREON 1236” and a colorless transparent body. Delayed-Release Capsules ( 3 ): 3,000 USP units of lipase; 9,500 USP units of protease; and 15,000 USP units of amylase 6,000 USP units of lipase; 19,000 USP units of protease; and 30,000 USP units of amylase 12,000 USP units of lipase; 38,000 USP units of protease; and 60,000 USP units of amylase 24,000 USP units of lipase; 76,000 USP units of protease; and 120,000 USP units of amylase 36,000 USP units of lipase; 114,000 USP units of protease; and 180,000 USP units of amylase

Contraindications

None. None ( 4 )

Warnings and precautions

Fibrosing C olonopathy : Associated with high doses, usually over prolonged use and in pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis. Colonic stricture reported in pediatric patients less than 12 years of age with dosages exceeding 6,000 lipase units/kg/meal. Monitor during treatment for progression of preexisting disease. Do not exceed the recommended dosage, unless clinically indicated. ( 2.1 , 5.1 ) I rritation of the O ral M ucosa : May occur due to loss of protective enteric coating on the capsule contents. ( 2.3 , 5.2 ) Hyperuricemia: Reported with high dosages; consider monitoring blood uric acid levels in patients with gout, renal impairment, or hyperuricemia. ( 5.3 ) Risk of Viral Transmission: The presence of porcine viruses that might infect humans cannot be definitely excluded. ( 5.4 ) Hypersensitivity Reactions: Monitor patients with known reactions to proteins of porcine origin. If symptoms occur, initiate appropriate medical management; consider the risks and benefits of continued treatment. ( 5.5 ) 5.1 Fibrosing Colonopathy Fibrosing colonopathy has been reported following treatment with pancreatic enzyme products. Fibrosing colonopathy is a rare, serious adverse reaction initially described in association with use of high-dose pancreatic enzyme products, usually over a prolonged period of time and most commonly reported in pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis. Pancreatic enzyme products exceeding 6,000 lipase units/kg/meal have been associated with colonic stricture, a complication of fibrosing colonopathy, in pediatric patients less than 12 years of age. The underlying mechanism of fibrosing colonopathy remains unknown. If there is history of fibrosing colonopathy, monitor patients during treatment with CREON because some patients may be at risk of progressing to colonic stricture formation. It is uncertain whether regression of fibrosing colonopathy occurs. Do not exceed the recommended dosage of either 2,500 lipase units/kg/meal, 10,000 lipase units/kg/day, or 4,000 lipase units/g fat ingested/day in adult and pediatric patients greater than 12 months of age without further investigation . Higher dosages may be administered if they are documented to be effective by fecal fat measures or an improvement in signs or symptoms of malabsorption including measures of nutritional status. Patients receiving dosages higher than 6,000 lipase units/kg/meal should be frequently monitored for symptoms of fibrosing colonopathy and the dosage decreased or titrated downward to a lower range if clinically appropriate [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 )] . 5.2 Irritation of the Oral Mucosa Crushing or chewing CREON capsules or mixing the capsule contents in foods having a pH greater than 4.5 can disrupt the protective enteric coating on the capsule contents and result in early release of enzymes, irritation of the oral mucosa, and/or loss of enzyme activity. Instruct the patient or caregiver of the following: Swallow capsules whole. For patients who cannot swallow the capsules whole, the capsules can be opened, and the contents sprinkled in a small amount of acidic soft food with a pH of 4.5 or less (e.g., applesauce, bananas, plain Greek yogurt). Do not crush or chew CREON capsules or capsule contents. Consume sufficient liquids (juice, water, breast milk, or formula) immediately following administration of CREON to ensure complete swallowing. Visually inspect the mouth of pediatric patients less than 12 months of age and of patients who are unable to swallow intact capsules to ensure no drug is retained in the mouth and irritation of the oral mucosa has not occurred [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )] . 5.3 Hyperuricemia Pancreatic enzyme products contain purines that may increase blood uric acid levels. High dosages have been associated with hyperuricosuria and hyperuricemia [see Overdosage ( 10 )]. Consider monitoring blood uric acid levels in patients with gout, renal impairment, or hyperuricemia during treatment with CREON. 5.4 Risk of Viral Transmission CREON is sourced from pancreatic tissue from swine used for food consumption. Although the risk that CREON will transmit an infectious agent to humans has been reduced by testing for certain viruses during manufacturing and by inactivating certain viruses during manufacturing, there is a theoretical risk for transmission of viral disease, including diseases caused by novel or unidentified viruses. Thus, the presence of porcine viruses that might infect humans cannot be definitely excluded. However, no cases of transmission of an infectious illness associated with the use of porcine pancreatic extracts have been reported. 5.5 Hypersensitivity Reactions Severe hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis, asthma, hives, and pruritus have been reported with pancreatic enzyme products [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] . If symptoms occur, initiate appropriate medical management. Monitor patients with a known hypersensitivity reaction to proteins of porcine origin for hypersensitivity reactions during treatment with CREON. The risks and benefits of continued CREON treatment in patients with severe hypersensitivity reactions should be taken into consideration with the overall clinical needs of the patient.

Side effects

The following serious or otherwise important adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Fibrosing Colonopathy [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] Irritation of the Oral Mucosa [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Hyperuricemia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] Risk of Viral Transmission [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] Most Common Adverse R eactions ( 6.1 ) C ystic fibrosis adult and pediatric patients : 7 years and older (≥4%): vomiting, dizziness, cough. 4 months to 6 years (6%): vomiting, irritability, decreased appetite. C hronic pancreatitis or pancreatectomy patient s: Adults (≥ 4%): hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, abdominal pain, abnormal feces, flatulence, frequent bowel movements, nasopharyngitis. To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact AbbVie Inc. at 1-800-633-9110 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to the rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The data described below reflect exposure to CREON in 92 patients: 67 patients aged 4 months to 43 years with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency due to cystic fibrosis (Studies 1, 2, and 3) and 25 adults with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency due to chronic pancreatitis or pancreatectomy (Study 4) [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 ) and Clinical Studies ( 14.1 , 14.2 )] . Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency Due to Cystic Fibrosis in Adult and Pediatric Patients Adult and Pediatric Patients 7 Years of Age and Older The most common adverse reactions, reported in at least 2 CREON-treated patients (greater than or equal to 4%) and at a higher rate than in placebo-treated patients in Studies 1 and 2, are shown in Table 1. Table 1: Adverse Reactions* in Clinical Trials of Adult and Pediatric Patients 7 Years of Age and Older with Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency due to Cystic Fibrosis (Studies 1 and 2) Adverse Reaction CREON N = 49 n (%) Placebo N = 47 n (%) Vomiting 3 (6%) 1 (2%) Dizziness 2 (4%) 1 (2%) Cough 2 (4%) 0 (0%) * Reported in at least 2 CREON-treated patients (greater than or equal to 4%) and at a higher rate than placebo-treated patients. In Study 1, one patient experienced duodenitis and gastritis of moderate severity 16 days after completing treatment with CREON. Transient neutropenia without clinical sequelae was observed as an abnormal laboratory finding in one patient receiving CREON and a macrolide antibiotic. Pediatric Patients 4 Months to 6 Years of Age Adverse reactions reported in 18 CREON-treated pediatric patients aged 4 months to 6 years in Study 3 were vomiting, irritability, and decreased appetite, each occurring in 6% of patients [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 )] . Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency Due to Chronic Pancreatitis or Pancreatectomy in Adults Adverse reactions reported in at least 1 adult CREON-treated patient (greater than or equal to 4%) and at a higher rate than in placebo-treated patients in Study 4 is shown in Table 2. Table 2: Adverse Reactions* in a Clinical Trial of Adult Patients with Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency Due to Chronic Pancreatitis or Pancreatectomy (Study 4) Adverse Reaction CREON N = 25 n (%) Placebo N = 29 n (%) Hyperglycemia 2 (8%) 2 (7%) Hypoglycemia 1 (4%) 1 (3%) Abdominal Pain 1 (4%) 1 (3%) Abnormal Feces 1 (4%) 0 (0%) Flatulence 1 (4%) 0 (0%) Frequent Bowel Movements 1 (4%) 0 (0%) Nasopharyngitis 1 (4%) 0 (0%) * Reported in at least 1 CREON-treated patient (greater than or equal to 4%) and at a higher rate than placebo-treated patients. 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of CREON or other pancreatic enzyme products. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Eye Disorders blurred vision Gastrointestinal D isorders fibrosing colonopathy and distal intestinal obstruction syndrome abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence, constipation, and nausea Immune System Disorders anaphylaxis, asthma, hives, and pruritus Investigations asymptomatic elevations of liver enzymes Musculoskeletal System myalgia, muscle spasm Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders urticaria and rash

Use in specific populations

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Published data from case reports with pancrelipase use in pregnant women have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or other adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Pancrelipase is minimally absorbed systematically; therefore, maternal use is not expected to result in fetal exposure to the drug. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with pancrelipase. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There are no data on the presence of pancrelipase in either human or animal milk, the effects on the breastfed infant or the effects on milk production. Pancrelipase is minimally absorbed systemically following oral administration; therefore, maternal use is not expected to result in clinically relevant exposure of breastfed infants to the drug. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for CREON and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from CREON or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of CREON for the treatment of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency have been established in pediatric patients. Use of CREON for this indication is supported by two adequate and well-controlled trials in adult and pediatric patients 12 years and older (Study 1) and in pediatric patients 7 to 11 years of age (Study 2) along with supportive data from an open-label, single-arm, study in 18 pediatric patients 4 months to six years of age (Study 3). All three study populations consisted of patients with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency due to cystic fibrosis. The safety in pediatric patients 7 years of age and older in Studies 1 and 2 were similar to that observed adult patients [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 ) and Clinical Studies ( 14 )] . In Study 3, patients received their usual pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (mean dose of 7,000 lipase units/kg/day for a mean duration of 18.2 days) followed by CREON (mean dose of 7,500 lipase units/kg/day for a mean duration of 12.6 days). The mean daily fat intake was 48 grams during treatment with usual pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy and 47 grams during treatment with CREON. Adverse reactions that occurred in patients during treatment with CREON in Study 3 were vomiting, irritability, and decreased appetite [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Dosages exceeding 6,000 lipase units/kg/meal have been reported postmarketing to be associated with fibrosing colonopathy and colonic strictures in pediatric patients less than 12 years of age. If there is a history of fibrosing colonopathy, monitor patients during treatment with CREON because some patients may be at risk of progressing to stricture formation. Do not exceed the recommended dosage of either 2,500 lipase units/kg/meal, 10,000 lipase units/kg/day, or 4,000 lipase units/g fat ingested/day in pediatric patients greater than 12 months of age without further investigation [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Crushing or chewing CREON capsules or mixing the capsule contents in foods having a pH greater than 4.5 can disrupt the protective enteric coating on the capsule contents and result in early release of enzymes, irritation of the oral mucosa, and/or loss of enzyme activity. Instruct the patient or caregiver of the following: consume sufficient liquids (juice, water, breast milk, or formula) to ensure complete swallowing, and visually inspect the mouth of pediatric patients less than 12 months of age to ensure no drug is retained in the mouth and irritation of the oral mucosa has not occurred [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) ] . 8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of CREON did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 years and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between patients aged 65 years and over and younger adult patients.

Pregnancy

Pediatric use

8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of CREON for the treatment of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency have been established in pediatric patients. Use of CREON for this indication is supported by two adequate and well-controlled trials in adult and pediatric patients 12 years and older (Study 1) and in pediatric patients 7 to 11 years of age (Study 2) along with supportive data from an open-label, single-arm, study in 18 pediatric patients 4 months to six years of age (Study 3). All three study populations consisted of patients with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency due to cystic fibrosis. The safety in pediatric patients 7 years of age and older in Studies 1 and 2 were similar to that observed adult patients [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 ) and Clinical Studies ( 14 )] . In Study 3, patients received their usual pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (mean dose of 7,000 lipase units/kg/day for a mean duration of 18.2 days) followed by CREON (mean dose of 7,500 lipase units/kg/day for a mean duration of 12.6 days). The mean daily fat intake was 48 grams during treatment with usual pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy and 47 grams during treatment with CREON. Adverse reactions that occurred in patients during treatment with CREON in Study 3 were vomiting, irritability, and decreased appetite [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Dosages exceeding 6,000 lipase units/kg/meal have been reported postmarketing to be associated with fibrosing colonopathy and colonic strictures in pediatric patients less than 12 years of age. If there is a history of fibrosing colonopathy, monitor patients during treatment with CREON because some patients may be at risk of progressing to stricture formation. Do not exceed the recommended dosage of either 2,500 lipase units/kg/meal, 10,000 lipase units/kg/day, or 4,000 lipase units/g fat ingested/day in pediatric patients greater than 12 months of age without further investigation [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Crushing or chewing CREON capsules or mixing the capsule contents in foods having a pH greater than 4.5 can disrupt the protective enteric coating on the capsule contents and result in early release of enzymes, irritation of the oral mucosa, and/or loss of enzyme activity. Instruct the patient or caregiver of the following: consume sufficient liquids (juice, water, breast milk, or formula) to ensure complete swallowing, and visually inspect the mouth of pediatric patients less than 12 months of age to ensure no drug is retained in the mouth and irritation of the oral mucosa has not occurred [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) ] .

Geriatric use

8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of CREON did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 years and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between patients aged 65 years and over and younger adult patients.

Overdosage

Chronic high dosages of pancreatic enzyme products have been associated with fibrosing colonopathy and colonic strictures [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . High dosages of pancreatic enzyme products have been associated with hyperuricosuria and hyperuricemia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] .

Description

Pancrelipase is a pancreatic enzyme product consisting of a mixture of enzymes including lipases, proteases, and amylases and is an extract derived from porcine pancreatic glands. The enteric-coated spheres in CREON are formulated to release pancreatic enzymes at an approximate pH of 5.5 or greater. CREON (pancrelipase) delayed-release capsules are for oral administration, include a two-piece shell containing tan-colored enteric-coated spheres (0.71 mm to 1.60 mm in diameter), and are available as follows: 3,000 USP units of lipase; 9,500 USP units of protease; and 15,000 USP units of amylase; delayed-release capsules with shells that contain hypromellose and titanium dioxide, and that also may contain carrageenan and potassium chloride. 6,000 USP units of lipase; 19,000 USP units of protease; and 30,000 USP units of amylase; delayed-release capsules with shells that may contain gelatin, hypromellose, carrageenan, potassium chloride, sodium lauryl sulfate, titanium dioxide, FD&C Blue No. 1, and FD&C Blue No. 2, red iron oxide, and yellow iron oxide. 12,000 USP units of lipase; 38,000 USP units of protease; and 60,000 USP units of amylase; delayed-release capsules with shells that may contain gelatin, hypromellose, carrageenan, potassium chloride, sodium lauryl sulfate, titanium dioxide, black iron oxide, red iron oxide, and yellow iron oxide. 24,000 USP units of lipase; 76,000 USP units of protease; and 120,000 USP units of amylase; delayed-release capsules with shells that may contain gelatin, hypromellose, carrageenan, potassium chloride, sodium lauryl sulfate, titanium dioxide, red iron oxide, and yellow iron oxide. 36,000 USP units of lipase; 114,000 USP units of protease; and 180,000 USP units of amylase; delayed-release capsules with shells that may contain gelatin, hypromellose, carrageenan, potassium chloride, sodium lauryl sulfate, titanium dioxide, FD&C Blue No. 1, and FD&C Blue No. 2. CREON (pancrelipase) delayed-release capsules include the following inactive ingredients: cetyl alcohol, dimethicone, hypromellose phthalate, polyethylene glycol, and triethyl citrate.

Mechanism of action

12.1 Mechanism of Action Pancreatic enzyme products contain a mixture of lipases, proteases, and amylases that catalyze the hydrolysis of fats to monoglyceride, glycerol and free fatty acids, proteins into peptides and amino acids, and starches into dextrins and short chain sugars such as maltose and maltriose in the duodenum and proximal small intestine, thereby acting like digestive enzymes physiologically secreted by the pancreas.

How supplied

(pancrelipase) delayed-release capsules, containing tan-colored enteric-coated pancrelipase spheres, are supplied as follows: Strength Description Supplied As NDC Number 3,000 USP units of lipase; 9,500 USP units of protease; 15,000 USP units of amylase Two-piece hypromellose capsule, white opaque cap imprinted “CREON 1203”, white opaque body Bottles of 70 0032-0045-70 0032-1203-70 6,000 USP units of lipase; 19,000 USP units of protease; 30,000 USP units of amylase Two-piece hypromellose capsule, orange opaque cap imprinted “CREON 1206”, blue opaque body Bottles of 100 0032-0046-70 Two-piece gelatin capsule, orange opaque cap imprinted “CREON 1206”, blue opaque body Bottles of 100 0032-1206-01 Bottles of 250 0032-1206-07 12,000 USP units of lipase; 38,000 USP units of protease; 60,000 USP units of amylase Two-piece hypromellose capsule, brown opaque cap imprinted “CREON 1212”, colorless transparent body Bottles of 100 0032-0047-70 Two-piece gelatin capsule, brown opaque cap imprinted “CREON 1212”, colorless transparent body Bottles of 100 0032-1212-01 Bottles of 250 0032-1212-07 24,000 USP units of lipase; 76,000 USP units of protease; 120,000 USP units of amylase Two-piece hypromellose capsule, orange opaque cap imprinted “CREON 1224”, colorless transparent body Bottles of 100 0032-2636-01 Bottles of 240 0032-2636-70 Two-piece gelatin capsule, orange opaque cap imprinted “CREON 1224”, colorless transparent body Bottles of 100 0032-1224-01 Bottles of 250 0032-1224-07 36,000 USP units of lipase; 114,000 USP units of protease; 180,000 USP units of amylase Two-piece hypromellose capsule, blue opaque cap imprinted “CREON 1236”, colorless transparent body Bottles of 100 0032-2637-01 Bottles of 240 0032-2637-70 Two-piece gelatin capsule, blue opaque cap imprinted “CREON 1236”, colorless transparent body Bottles of 100 0032-3016-13 Bottles of 250 0032-3016-28 Storage and Handling Store CREON at room temperature, 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and protect from moisture. Temperature excursions are permitted between 25°C to 40°C (77°F to 104°F) for up to 30 days. Discard CREON if exposed to higher temperature and moisture conditions higher than 70%. After opening, keep bottle tightly closed between uses to protect from moisture. Keep the desiccant in the bottle if present . Store and dispense CREON in the original container.

Patient information

Advise the patient or caregiver to read the FDA-approved patient labeling ( Medication Guide ). Fibrosing Colonopathy Advise the patient or caregiver that fibrosing colonopathy has been reported with high dosages of pancreatic enzyme products, usually with use over a prolonged period of time and in pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis. Colonic stricture has been reported in pediatric patients less than 12 years of age. Advise patients and caregivers that if signs and symptoms of colon stricture formation occur (e.g., stomach area (abdominal) pain, bloating, trouble passing stool (constipation), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) to immediately contact their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) ] . Hyperuricemia Advise the patient or caregiver that hyperuricemia may occur in patients with gout or renal impairment and to contact the healthcare provider if they experience pain, stiffness, redness or swelling of their joints [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )]. Hypersensitivity Reactions Inform the patient or caregiver that severe hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, asthma, hives, and pruritus, have been reported with use of pancreatic enzyme products. Seek medical attention if signs or symptoms of a hypersensitivity reaction develop [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] . Dos age Advise the patient or caregiver to take or administer CREON as prescribed, and to contact the healthcare provider if signs and symptoms of malabsorption persist [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 )] . Administration Instruct the patient or caregiver as follows: Take CREON during meals and snacks. Swallow capsules whole. For adult and pediatric patients unable to swallow intact capsules, the capsule contents may be sprinkled on a small amount of soft acidic food with a pH of 4.5 or less (e.g., applesauce, bananas, plain Greek yogurt). For pediatric patients birth to 12 months of age, CREON capsules can also be opened, and the capsule contents sprinkled directly into the infant’s mouth. Consume sufficient liquids (juice, water, breast milk, or formula) and visually inspect an infant’s mouth to ensure complete swallowing of CREON capsules or capsule contents [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Do not crush or chew CREON capsules or capsule contents. Do not mix the CREON capsule contents directly into a bottle of breast milk or formula. Storage Instruct the patient or caregiver as follows: Keep CREON in a dry place and protect from heat. After opening, keep the bottle tightly closed between uses to protect from moisture. Keep CREON in the original container. If there is a desiccant packet in the bottle, keep it in the bottle. Do not eat or throw away the desiccant. © 2009-2024 AbbVie. All rights reserved. CREON ® is a registered trademark of AbbVie Products LLC. Manufactured by: AbbVie Inc. North Chicago, IL 60064, U.S.A. US License Number 1889 20082735 February, 2024

Label text from the FDA structured product label by AbbVie Inc. (revised Feb 28, 2024). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.

Active ingredients

Pancrelipase Amylase in 10 products
Pancrelipase Lipase in 10 products
Pancrelipase Protease in 10 products

Creon NDC products (10)

NDC	Strength & form	Labeler	Type
0032-0045	Pancrelipase Amylase 15000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Lipase 3000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Protease 9500 [USP'U]/1 Capsule, Delayed Release	AbbVie Inc.	BLA
0032-0046	Pancrelipase Amylase 30000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Lipase 6000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Protease 19000 [USP'U]/1 Capsule, Delayed Release Pellets	AbbVie Inc.	BLA
0032-0047	Pancrelipase Amylase 60000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Lipase 12000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Protease 38000 [USP'U]/1 Capsule, Delayed Release Pellets	AbbVie Inc.	BLA
0032-1203	Pancrelipase Amylase 15000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Lipase 3000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Protease 9500 [USP'U]/1 Capsule, Delayed Release	AbbVie Inc.	BLA
0032-1206	Pancrelipase Amylase 30000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Lipase 6000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Protease 19000 [USP'U]/1 Capsule, Delayed Release Pellets	AbbVie Inc.	BLA
0032-1212	Pancrelipase Amylase 60000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Lipase 12000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Protease 38000 [USP'U]/1 Capsule, Delayed Release Pellets	AbbVie Inc.	BLA
0032-1224	Pancrelipase Lipase 24000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Protease 76000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Amylase 120000 [USP'U]/1 Capsule, Delayed Release Pellets	AbbVie Inc.	BLA
0032-2636	Pancrelipase Lipase 24000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Protease 76000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Amylase 120000 [USP'U]/1 Capsule, Delayed Release Pellets	AbbVie Inc.	BLA
0032-2637	Pancrelipase Lipase 36000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Amylase 180000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Protease 114000 [USP'U]/1 Capsule, Delayed Release Pellets	AbbVie Inc.	BLA
0032-3016	Pancrelipase Lipase 36000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Amylase 180000 [USP'U]/1; Pancrelipase Protease 114000 [USP'U]/1 Capsule, Delayed Release Pellets	AbbVie Inc.	BLA

Creon recalls

D-0402-2021 Jun 2, 2021 · Class II · Terminated
CGMP Deviations: Intermittent exposure to temperature excursion during storage.
D-1611-2014 Oct 8, 2014 · Class II · Terminated
Presence of Foreign Tablets/Capsules; Presence of co-mingled LipaCreon 13000.

Frequently asked questions

What is Creon used for?

What are the side effects of Creon?

Who makes Creon?

Creon is listed by 1 labeler in the FDA NDC directory, including AbbVie Inc..

Has Creon been recalled?

The FDA enforcement database lists 2 recalls for Creon, most recently D-0402-2021 (class ii): CGMP Deviations: Intermittent exposure to temperature excursion during storage.