Re: Preventing Deactivation of Lipase ot Maximize Absorption

August 11, 2004

Karyn wrote:

> In response to Deb, you wrote, " Do you take Omeprazole or something

similar to aid the absorption of the enzymes? "

(snip)inactivation of lipase by a gastric pH of greater than four? It explained

an additional reason why meds like Prilosec are administered to persons with

pancreatitis and others receiving digestive enzymes. (snip) reinforces the

literature that it does more than prevent indigestion, it maintains the gastric

pH

at or above 4.0 so that the digestive enzymes, Lipase, in particular, can be

absorbed without being deactivated.

Karyn,

My doctor put me on Protonix, a proton pump inhibitor, which serves the same

purpose as Prilosec, only he feels it works better. At first we tried Prilosec

and

the insurance company balked. My doctor got irritated with this, so he said

he'd go for the best and fight the system so I could get it, and he rewrote the

script for Protonix instead. Once again, the insurance company initially

denied it, wanting me to substitute Zantac or something similar instead. My

doctor called them and said that an antiacid like Zantac is in no way

comparable to a proton pump inhibitor like Protonix, and that I would have

much more effective results with Protonix. They finally relented, and

approved the med. I'd have to agree that this works wonderfully. Since I

switched to Viokase 16's and take the Protonix each day, I have not had one

session of after meal digestive upset or associated pain. Eating has become

much more of a pleasure and I don't dread the one to three after meal hours

like I used to where half the time I was doubled over with pain.

If you aren't taking an enteric coated enzyme, you might talk to your doctor

about this for yourself. I'm delighted with the results.

With love, hope and prayers,

Heidi

Heidi H. Griffeth

South Carolina

SC & SE Regional Rep.

PAI

Note: All comments or advice are based on personal experience or opinion

only, and should not be subsituted for consultation with a medical

professional.

Recommended Posts