Viokase

Viokase Ingredients: Pancrelipase
Representative Names: Cotazym, Cotazym-S, Creon, Ilozyme, Ku-Zyme HP, Lipram, Pancrease, Pancrecarb, Ultrase, Viokase, Zymase

What are Viokase tablets or capsules ?
Viokase tablets or capsules improve your digestion of foods by replacing digestive enzymes. Digestive enzymes are substances produced by an organ called the pancreas; some health problems that cause the body to produce less of these enzymes. You may need to take Viokase if you have cystic fibrosis or chronic inflammation of your pancreas, have had your pancreas removed, or have had certain types of stomach or intestinal surgery. Generic Viokase tablets and capsules are not available.

What should my health care professional know before I take Viokase ?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•acute pancreatitis
•difficulty swallowing
•esophagitis (inflammation of the tube leading from the mouth to the stomach)
•history of bowel obstruction
•frequent surgeries of the stomach or bowel
•an unusual or allergic reaction to Viokase, pancreatin, pork, pork protein, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding

How should I take Viokase ?
Take Viokase tablets or capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets or capsules with a drink of water, do not crush or chew the tablets or capsules. Take Viokase just before or with food. Drink plenty of water or juice after the dose. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Some Viokase capsules may be opened and sprinkled on soft foods that do not require chewing such as applesauce, instant pudding or gelatin. Do not mix in milk, ice cream, or other dairy products. Do not crush or chew the medicine. Ask your health professional or pharmacist if you need to learn how to take your medicine this way.

Viokase is often prescribed for children with specific health problems that impair their digestion. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a Viokase dose ?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with Viokase ?
•acarbose
•antacids containing calcium or magnesium
•iron salts
•miglitol

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What side effects may I notice from taking Viokase ?
Side effects are rare at recommended doses.
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
•diarrhea (severe or continuing)
•mouth irritation
•muscle aches or pains
•nausea, vomiting
•skin rash
•stomach pain
•stuffy nose
•swelling
•shortness of breath

What should I watch for while taking Viokase ?
Ask your prescriber or health care professional before you change your brand of Viokase. Each brand of Viokase contains different amounts of enzymes and may not give the same results.

Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Follow the instructions of your health care professional regarding your diet.

Do not hold the tablet or capsule in your mouth or chew it; the enzymes in the medicine may cause mouth sores.

Do not take antacids containing calcium or magnesium.

Where can I keep Viokase ?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F); do not freeze. Protect from moisture and do not refrigerate. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.