Pancreatic Enzymes for Crohn's: Seeking Advice

Pancreatic Enzymes Anyone?

So, due to my Crohn's attacking all my organs, I have since had a HIDA scan to check my gallbladder/liver. I have recently been diagnosed with Stage 2 Fibrosis (go figure, and I rarely drink 🙄) and determined too high risk for gallbladder surgery due to liver issues.
G.I. has since prescribed pancreatic enzymes to control the breakdown of fats/carbs and malnutrition issues due to the rapid transit of high output ileostomy.

Anyone take pancreatic enzymes? Does it help? Does it slow down output?

I've never heard of pancreatic enzymes, but maybe someone else can jump in and help you out. I hope taking them goes well for you. Maybe you can give an update on how it is going so that others might learn from you. Having a high-output ileostomy is no fun. I had that when I first got my ostomy, and I remember it was a nightmare to get nutrition in and to stay in. I am sorry you are struggling with all of this. Safe hugs...

They help break down the fats and carbs in your food when you have GI issues or problems with your pancreas and can no longer properly digest food on your own.

Hi...Barby

I take them 3 times a day due to a third of my pancreas being destroyed because of complications from having gallstones removed. (Long story)... For me, it does help break down the fats and digest the food easier. I've been on them for 4 years, and it's the only thing that helps me keep my food down. As far as the output goes, I also have a high-output ileostomy, and they do nothing for slowing it down. At times, I do take Imodium 15 minutes before I eat something I know will cause more of a watery output. There are a few different types of enzymes out there; I've only tried 2 of them. CREON (I think that's how it's spelled) is what they first gave me and what hospitals give you, which works and is way cheaper out of pocket or if you have insurance, but doesn't seem, at least for me, to work as well as Zenpep, but that's not cheap! Thankfully, my insurance pays for it. If you have any other questions, please feel free to reach out to me, and take care 🫂 🌹

Yes, well, I went to purchase the prescription, and it was $80 for 30 capsules on our extended health insurance—they are regularly $400?!!! Yeah, I don't need them that badly. Plus, doing more research into it, I'm not sure why she prescribed them when I do have current liver issues, as it can increase liver disease. Pretty sad when you have to second-guess your doctors nowadays.

Getting Support in the Ostomy Community with LeeAnne Hayden | Hollister

Thanks. I didn't know that. I had never heard of it before. I learn something new here all the time.