General Information on Viokase 8
Viokase 8 is used for treating exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, a condition in which the body is unable to digest food properly because of inadequate levels of certain digestive enzymes. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency may surface due to pancreatectomy, inflammation or irritation of the pancreas, cystic fibrosis, obstruction in the duct that links the pancreas with the common bile duct, and certain other medical conditions.
In the aforementioned medical conditions, the pancreas fails to produce adequate levels of digestive enzymes. Viokase 8 (generic name Pancrelipase) constitutes of 3 digestive enzymes- protease, amylase, and lipase. This drug relinquishes the decreasing supply of these three enzymes. This, in turn, aids the digestive process.
In addition to the aforementioned 3 enzymes, Viokase 8 also includes the following excipients: stearic acid, croscarmellose sodium, talc, lactose, silicon dioxide, and microcrystalline cellulose.
A prescription is required for this drug and, therefore, you must consult a physician before you buy Viokase 8. Patients who wish to buy Viokase 8 online should purchase it only from a reputed online prescription service.
Side effects of Viokase 8
Do not use this drug if you have an allergy to pork proteins. Patients who suffer from an allergic reaction after taking the first dosage should not take any further doses. Medical help should be sought if the allergic reaction is severe. The following symptoms mark a severe allergic reaction: trouble breathing, hives, sever skin rashes, wheezing, facial flushness, or difficulty swallowing.
Other known side effects of Viokase 8 may include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headache
- Greasy stools
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Stomach upset
- Flatulence, bloating
- Rectal irritation
These side effects are not expected to be severe. However, if they worsen or persist, you should report this to your doctor.
Certain medical conditions may call for dosage alterations. If you have or have had a kidney disease, blockage in the intestines, or gout, inform your doctor about it.
Viokase 8 should be used during pregnancy only if approved by the doctor. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or may become pregnant during treatment. Similarly, breastfeeding during treatment should be done only if the doctor declares it to be safe. Before you buy Viokase 8, inform your doctor if you are nursing a child.
Dosage of Viokase 8
Viokase 8 is administered orally. The drug is available in the form of oral tablets. Your doctor will prescribe the correct Viokase 8 dosage after studying your condition, medical history, and tolerance and response to treatment. Usually, patients with blockage in the pancreatic duct or pancreatitis are administered 1-2 tablets every 2 hour. The usual dosage for patients who have cystic fibrosis is 1-4 tablets a day.
For the best results, you must follow these guidelines:
- Take Viokase 8 exactly as directed by your physician
- Take your dosage with food
- Store the medication below 25°C
Interactions
It is possible that the effectiveness of Viokase 8 may decrease if you take certain drugs during treatment. To ensure that Viokase 8 is effective, inform your doctor about all the other medicines that you are taking.
The following is a partial list of drugs that can interact with Viokase 8.
- Cyclobenzaprine
- Gabapentin
- Oxycodone
- Tamsulosin
- Fentanyl
- Drospirenone
- Insulin glargine
- Esomeprazole
- Hydrochlorothiazide
- Levothyroxine
- Prednisone
- Methocarbamol
- Fluvastatin
- Sumatriptan
