| Drug and Dosage | Use | Action | Assessment: Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pancrelipase (Viokase)—adults, PO 325 mg–1 gm daily, during meals; children, PO 300–600 mg 3 times daily | Chronic pancreatitis; cystic fibrosis; gastrectomy; pancreatectomy; sprue | Assists in digestion of starch, protein, and fats; decreases nitrogen and fat content of stool | Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; buccal/anal soreness (infants); sneezing; skin rashes; diabetes |
| NURSING IMPLICATIONS: May be taken with antacid or cimetidine; do not crush or chew tablets; monitor I&O, weight; be alert for signs of diabetes; children may use sprinkles | |||