Frequently Asked Questions about PancrePlus
What is PancrePlus and how does it work?
PancrePlus is a prescription medication that is designed to help dogs and cats who suffer from exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), or maldigestion syndrome.This means that your pet's pancreas doesn't produce enough digestive enzymes (amylase, protease, lipase, etc.) to allow your pet to properly digest and absorb nutrients from their food. PancrePlus is used as a replacement therapy and substitutes the enzymes normally produced by the pancreas.
This product is available as in powder or tablet forms.
Who is PancrePlus for?
PancrePlus is for dogs and cats.
Does this product require a prescription?
Yes. Both the powder and tablets require a prescription.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering PancrePlus?
You should talk to your vet about what outcome they expect for your pet and if there are any additional treatment options available for your pet's condition. You should also ask if there will be any additional tests required while your pet is on this medication.
Also let them know if your pet is currently on any other medications including supplements or vitamins, antacids, cimetidine or other medications used to decrease stomach acid because interactions may occur. Antacids in particular may decrease the effectiveness of pancreatic enzymes.
What results can I expect if I give my pet PancrePlus?
Usually, your pet's digestion should improve quickly, however it may take some time for the other signs of EPI--weight, stool quality, haircoat, etc.--to return to normal. In most cases, pancreatic enzymes need to be given for life.
What are the possible side effects?
High doses may cause diarrhea, cramping, or vomiting. If you see any of these reactions, contact your veterinarian immediately. PancrePlus Powder may cause mouth irritation if it is not mixed well with moistened food and allowed to stand.
Signs that your cat or dog may be experiencing an allergic reaction to PancrePlus include: facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden diarrhea or vomiting, shock, seizures, cold limbs, pale gums, or coma. If you see any of these signs, seek immediate veterinary care.
Animals with pork allergies should not use PancrePlus.
What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
An overdose of PancrePlus may cause temporary diarrhea, cramping, or vomiting in your pet. If you know of or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any unusual signs or symptoms like those listed in the question above, contact your veterinarian immediately.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it to your dog as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your pet's next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to their regular schedule. Do not double up and give two doses at once.
What kind of pet medications will interact with this one?
Talk to your veterinarian before giving your pet PancrePlus if they are currently on any other medications including supplements or vitamins, antacids, cimetidine or other medications used to decrease stomach acid because interactions may occur. Antacids in particular may decrease the effectiveness of pancreatic enzymes.
Is there a generic alternative available?
There are a number of similar products. You should compare the quantities of each digestive enzyme to make sure your pet will be getting the same amount and whether or not the products includes the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, and E or not.
The brands of pancreatic enyzmes VetDepot carries include: PancrePlus, PancreVed, PancreaPowder Plus, PancreaTabs Plus, Pancrezyme, Epizyme, Bio Case V, and Viokase-V.
What forms does this medication come in?
PancrePlus Powder is available in 4, 8, and 12 oz. bottles. The tablets are available in 100 and 500 count bottles.
What if another pet in the household eats the food that has PancrePlus mixed in?
You don't want to give a medication intended for one pet to another who doesn't need it. Separating your pets at feeding time should make sure this does not happen. Observe the pet that consumed the unneeded treated food and contact your veterinarian.
My dog gets bad breath after eating food mixed with PancrePlus. What should I do?
While bad breath is not one of the possible side effects listed by the manufacturer, there are a variety of products available that will help your pet's breath. Some of these include: Pleasant Breath Plus Tablets, Yip Yap Breath Treats, Oratene Breath Freshener, or BreathaLyser Plus. However, you should talk to your vet first before giving your pet any new treats or supplements when they are on medication.
My pet's mouth bleeds or gets sores when I put PancrePlus Powder on their food.
PancrePlus Powder can be mixed in with moistened dry food or added your pet's canned food. Once mixed, it needs to stand at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before you give it to your pet. If your pet eats the food before those 15-20 minutes are up, the PancrePlus Powder can cause irritation, sores, or bleeding in their mouth. If the irritation persists or other unusual signs develop, contact your veterinarian.
How far in advance do I need to give the tablets before I feed my pet?
You can administer PancrePlus Tablets at the same time as you feed your pet.
I bake my own dog treats in the oven. Can I add the powder to them before they're cooked? Will it alter the medication?
Baking the powder in the oven will destroy the medication. The manufacturer states that the medication should not be exposed to temperatures over 95°F.