Viokace

(Lipase/Protease/Amylase)

The active ingredients in Vioacke are lipases, proteases, and amylases made from pig pancreas. When these enzymes are released in the small intestine, they break down our food into smaller and more digestible pieces that our body can use as nutrition for energy and support.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Viokace. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Viokace:

• Viokace should be used exactly as prescribed.
• Your total daily dose will be determined by your prescriber. If you eat more fatty foods, your dose may be different than others. Viokace should be taken with a meal or snack and a full glass of water. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew the tablets. Because Viokace is sensitive to acid, your doctor will also prescribe a PPI or proton pump inhibitor alongside the Viokace. These medications decrease stomach acid, preventing the medication from breaking down in the stomach.
• Other pancreatic enzyme replacement therapies, like Viokace, are also available on the market, such as Creon or Zenpep. However, do not switch to the other ones without first talking to your doctor.
• Viokace, when taken appropriately, will help correct your stomach issues. However, if you continue to have signs and symptoms of malabsorption (not absorbing nutrients from food) such as abdominal pain, abdominal distention, bloating, fatty stools, or weight loss, talk to your doctor. This may be a sign that the medication is not right for you or that your dose may need to be changed.
• If you miss a dose, wait until your next meal and then take your usual number of tablets. Do not double your doses to make up for a missed dose.

Some mild or common side effects of Viokace include:

• Gallstones
• Anal itching

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Viokace. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Mouth irritation if the tablet is not swallowed completely
• Signs of hyperuricemia or an increase in uric acid levels, such as pain, stiffness, redness, or swelling of your joints
• Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, eyes, or tongue
• Signs of a serious bowel disorder known as fibrosing colonopathy, such as stomach pain, bloating, trouble with bowel movements, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

These are not all of the possible side effects of Viokace. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Viokace, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• An allergy to porcine or pig products
• A history of intestinal blockage
• A history of fibrosing colonopathy, scarring, or thickening of the bowel wall
• Gout or hyperuricemia
• Kidney disease
• Trouble swallowing tablets
• Lactose intolerant
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed

There are no contraindications listed for Viokace.

Viokace starts to work right after it is taken. However, it may take several weeks of regular use to see the full benefits of this medication.

When Viokace is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

Viokace tablets are available in 2 different strengths:

• 10,440 USP units of lipase, 39,150 USP units of protease, and 39,150 USP units of amylase
• 20,880 USP units of lipase, 78,300 USP units of protease, and 78,300 USP units of amylase

Viokace should be stored in its original container at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children.

Viokace is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Aimmune Therapeutics.

There is currently no generic available for the brand-name Viokace.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Viokace.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown if Viokace passes into the breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.