Efficacy of Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy in Chronic Pancreatitis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
de la Iglesia-Garcia D, Huang W, Szatmary P, Baston-Rey I, Gonzalez-Lopez J, Prada-Ramallal G, Dominguez-Munoz JE
Published in Gut
Methodology
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 17 randomised trials of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy in patients with chronic pancreatitis and exocrine insufficiency.
Key Findings
Enzyme therapy significantly improved coefficient of fat absorption versus placebo (mean difference 83.7% vs 63.1%) and reduced steatorrhoea-related symptoms; enteric-coated minimicrospheres performed best.
Conclusions
Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy effectively corrects fat malabsorption in documented exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.
Limitations
Trials mostly short and industry-sponsored; findings apply to diagnosed insufficiency, not general digestive complaints.
Supplements Studied
Enzyme therapy significantly improved coefficient of fat absorption versus placebo (83.7% vs 63.1%).
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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