to Nan re: enzymes

[Guest guest]

Dear Nan,

Ultrase is the same enzymes that I take, except I get the generic

form, called Pancrelipase, from my pharmacist because they are

less expense. These are an eneric coated capsule, so you do

not need to take additional antiacids with this type of enzyme. If

the Pancreatin enzymes have a matte finish, instead of a shiny,

gel looking capsule, they are enzymes that are supposed to be

accompanied with antiacids because they break down faster

and cause more irritation. That is why there are precautions

about changing or switching brands of enzyme supplements. I

am on 130,000 units of protease, 130,000 units of amylase and

40,000 units of lipase per meal or snack.

They should not be necessary with fruits, unless you are having

a flareup. During times of a bad flare I abstain from any food as

much as possible, even fruits and acidic juices, but I do drink

large quantities of clear fluids, water, tea, cranberry juice, apple

juice and broth, until I start feeling better, thereby giving my

pancreas a chance to rest. This is what they do for you in the

hospital, too, just keep you on clears.

I do not have problems with nausea anymore so can't advise you

on Phenergan, but do know that several members of the group

have taken this medication. Hopefully someone will post and let

you know their reactions to it. I took Vicodin for breakthrough

pain last summer and am now on Percocet, I actually preferred

the Vicodin, but it was prescribed by a different doctor and my GI

wanted to prescribe Percocet instead (I don't know why).

I would imagine that you should take the Phenergan whenever

you are nauseated, either the suppository or the pill, but not both

at the same time. Again, hopefully someone who's used it will

step in and reply.

I hope you start feeling better, it's probably a good thing that you

waited to go to the ER so that you could get some fast help and

not have to wait so long.

Take care, and drink lots of fluids!

With hope and prayers,

Heidi in SC