TOP 13 cheap and effective analogues of the drug Creon for adults and children

Has restrictions during pregnancy

Allowed during breastfeeding

Allowed for children

Allowed for older people

Has limitations for liver problems

Has limitations for kidney problems

Creon is a drug that includes enzyme substances and is used to correct food digestion processes. The active substance is pancreatin. It consists of three groups of enzymes:

• protease;
• lipase;
• amylase.

The main task of these substances is to catalyze the processes of digestion of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. There are several forms of this drug (drug), the main difference between them is the dosage of the active substance. In pharmacies you can purchase Creon 10,000, 25,000 and 40,000 units, as well as analogues of each of the forms given below. There is also a children's form of the drug Kreonchik for 5000 units. The drug is completely safe and can be used for all categories of patients.

Creon's action

The drug may be prescribed in the following cases:

• chronic pancreatitis;
• neoplasms of the pancreas;
• surgical interventions on the gastrointestinal tract;
• cholestasis;
• biliary obstruction;
• cystic fibrosis;
• Shwachman-Diamond pathology;
• malfunctions of the gastrointestinal tract of various ethologies;
• cirrhotic processes;
• duodenostasis and gastrostasis;
• pathologies of the small intestine;
• rehabilitation therapy after infectious lesions of the gastrointestinal tract;
• normalization of pancreatic enzyme activity in elderly people;
• obstructive processes in the bile ducts;
• disorders of the intestinal microflora in newborns.

Average prices in Russia for the drug and its analogues

In order to understand the average cost of the drug and its analogues, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the following list of drugs presented in the table. Before using any of the listed drugs, you should consult your doctor.

The difference in cost is based on the dosage form of the active substance. Cheaper analogues of Creon are presented in the form of tablets, therefore they contain enzymes in powder form, which can be pressed. This supply reduces the cost of production and reduces the cost of the final product.

In Creon, enzymes are mini-microspheres, which are subsequently placed in a capsule. This production method is more expensive, but this drug is more effective in use than its analogues. This is due to the fact that minimicrospheres with enzymes are released from the shell faster, and the concentration of the main substance reaches its maximum in much less time.

Inexpensive substitutes

The Russian market is sufficiently supplied with various representatives of the group of drugs that improve digestion. In order to figure out which one is suitable in your case, we suggest that you familiarize yourself in more detail with Creon analogues, which are cheaper.

Pancreatin

The drug belongs to the group of enzyme preparations that help normalize digestive processes. The tablets are based on pancreatin. Its action is aimed at catalyzing the processes of digestion of the main groups of nutrients. Subsequently, this helps to improve the absorption of these nutrients from the lumen of the small intestine.

The main active ingredient of the drug

Pancreatin is used in the following situations:

• insufficiency of the excretory capacity of the pancreas;
• chronic inflammatory processes localized in the gastrointestinal tract, accompanied by the development of dystrophic processes;
• removal or irradiation of the digestive organs listed above;
• as a component of combination therapy for flatulence and diarrhea;
• failures in diet in patients who do not have pathologies in the functions of the digestive organs;
• chewing disorder;
• prolonged immobility and sedentary lifestyle.

The main contraindications are acute pancreatitis or relapse of chronic pancreatitis, individual intolerance to any components of the drug. The main difference between Pancreatin and Creon is that the latter has special protection for the active substance, which prevents its destruction in the stomach. Therefore, the components of the drug reach the lumen of the small intestine without loss of effectiveness.

Pancreazim

The drug is a representative of the pharmacological group of enzymatic agents that improve digestive processes. It contains pancreatin as the main component, and the auxiliary components are aerosil, crospovidone, magnesium stearate and others. They break down the molecular bonds of protein, fat and carbohydrate compounds, which facilitates their absorption in the small intestine.

Secretory function of the pancreas

Pancreazym is used for disorders of the secretory function of the pancreas, overeating. It is also used to combat the consequences of operations on the gastrointestinal tract and after treatment with chemotherapy. It is recommended to use the medication before or during meals. Side effects may include:

• rash;
• hyperuricosuria;
• increase in uric acid content in blood plasma.

The medication is not recommended for use in case of inflammatory processes in the pancreas and in the presence of an allergy to its individual components. The effectiveness of Pancreazym is lower than that of Creon, since this drug is produced in the form of tablets that release enzymes more slowly than mini-microspheres.

Solizim

The medicine belongs to the category of enzyme-containing products that help normalize digestive processes. The main active ingredient in the composition is lipase. The enzyme substance is obtained from an extract of a special mushroom culture. Lipase helps hydrolyze fat particles in the intestines, which facilitates their further absorption and digestion. Solizim is used for:

• hepatitis;
• chronic pancreatitis;
• enteritis;
• gastritis;
• enterocolitis;
• going through the recovery period after operations on the gastrointestinal tract.

Action and indications for use of Solizym

The drug must be taken during or after a meal. No contraindications or side effects were identified during the drug study. The only thing you need to beware of is the appearance of increased individual sensitivity to individual components. Unlike Solyzyme, Creon is a drug containing three enzymes that can break down proteins and carbohydrates in addition to fats.

Somilaza

Included in a subgroup of medications containing enzymes, the action of which is aimed at improving digestion processes. Somilase has two main components - lipase and amylase, which catalyze the breakdown of fats and polysaccharides. It is used for disorders of the excretory function of the pancreas, in which the lipolytic and amylalytic ability of the organ suffers.

Pancreatic enzymes

The drug is also effective for other disorders of the digestive processes associated with inflammatory changes in the gastrointestinal tract. Somylase can also be used in cases of significant eating disorders and overeating. There were no side effects or contraindications other than individual intolerance to individual components of the drug. Unlike Creon, this medicine is not able to cope with impaired protein digestion.

Gastenorm Forte

The enzyme preparation includes pancreatin. It can relieve problems associated with the digestion and absorption of fatty, protein and carbohydrate foods. These conditions include:

• inflammatory processes in different parts of the gastrointestinal tract;
• disorder of exocrine activity of the pancreas;
• physical inactivity;
• binge eating;
• problems with chewing food.

Indications for use of Gastenorm

To achieve the best therapeutic effect, the medicine is taken simultaneously with food. Among the side effects of the drug, the following were found:

• development of an allergic reaction;
• dyspeptic disorders;
• hyperuricosuria;
• hyperuricemia.

Gastenorm Forte is prohibited for use in cases of pancreatitis and intestinal obstruction. The drug has a similar effect to Creon, but the pancreatin contained in it has low activity.

Penzital

Refers to medicines that contain enzymes and promote food digestion. Its intake helps relieve the pancreas, prevents incomplete breakdown of nutrients, improves gastrointestinal function and eliminates excess gas formation. The drug must be taken before or immediately after a meal.

Release form of the drug

Contraindications include exacerbation of pancreatitis and hyperreactivity reactions to any component of the medication. Side effects may include stool disturbance, nausea, irritation of the oral mucosa and perianal area. There is also a risk of hyperuricemia and hyperuricosuria. It differs from Creon only in the release form: Penzital is sold in the form of tablets for oral use, and not in the form of mini-microspheres.

Mezim Forte

The medicine belongs to the pharmacological class of drugs containing biological catalysts. The active substance is pancreatin with low enzymatic activity. It prevents the development of pancreatic enzyme deficiency and has a pancreatoprotective effect.

Therapeutic effects of Mezim Forte

Used to prevent deficiency of pancreatic lipase, amylase and protease. Helps normalize digestive processes in the gastrointestinal tract, disturbed due to overeating and physical inactivity. Used enterally during or after meals. From the group of undesirable manifestations the following may develop:

• allergic processes;
• bowel disorders (various degrees of constipation or diarrhea);
• nausea;
• pain in the epigastric region;
• increased levels of uric acid in urine or blood.

Unlike Creon, Mezim Forte contains low-active pancreatin in its structure. As a result, its therapeutic effect is less.

Common Causes of Stomach Problems

To choose an effective and efficient drug for the stomach, you need to determine the origin of the problem. It can be:

• chronic pathologies;
• acute conditions that cannot be managed without medical care;
• minor temporary disturbances.

Taking a more detailed look at the problem, five main reasons can be identified.

Poor nutrition

Eating products of questionable quality, fast food and an unbalanced diet can provoke periodic spasms. When you overeat, internal pressure builds up, causing heartburn. Regular consumption of legumes leads to gas formation. Foods high in toxins (melons, fruits) can cause poisoning of the body of varying severity.

Impact of stress

Stress factors can provoke acute and unexpected cramps in the stomach. The cause is extreme situations, not chronic and prolonged depression. In such situations, it is recommended to take herbal soothing tea, an antispasmodic.

Antibiotic therapy

Any medications taken for a long period of time have a positive and at the same time negative effect on a person. Even if therapy is not carried out in relation to the gastrointestinal tract, it is he who primarily suffers from side effects. Oral antibiotics enter the stomach, where they are divided into individual components that are distributed according to their intended purpose.

As a result, the microflora of the digestive system is disrupted, which causes unpleasant sensations. The most pronounced side effects are with cephalosporin and tetracycline. Even with a shortened course of treatment they:

• destroy beneficial microflora;
• provoke pH imbalance.

Probiotics can help in such cases. You can also normalize stomach acidity by regularly consuming fermented milk products.

Peptic ulcer

An intestinal or stomach ulcer occurs for reasons such as:

• chronic stress;
• bacterial infection;
• entry into the gastrointestinal tract of aggressive chemical components.

In a chronic condition, pain is almost imperceptible. It progresses during periods of exacerbation after consuming sour or spicy foods, alcohol, and various spices. In critical cases, acute pain may be accompanied by internal bleeding.

Gastritis

This is an inflammatory process that affects the gastric mucosa. The disease can be chronic with regular pain or acute with sudden attacks that quickly appear and disappear. Treatment of gastritis is recommended to begin at the earliest stages.

Other similar products

In addition to the analogues listed above, there are several more expensive drugs that can exhibit an effect similar to Creon.

Micrasim

The drug is included in the list of drugs in the group that contains enzymes. Its main active ingredient is pancreatin, which is in the form of mini microspheres. The active ingredients are contained in a capsule, which protects them from the aggressive effects of the acidic contents of the stomach. Thanks to this, all enzymes are delivered to the small intestine in maximum concentration. The medicine is used to relieve the following conditions:

• cystic fibrosis;
• pancreatitis with decreased secretory function of the pancreas;
• gastritis;
• hepatitis;
• enteritis;
• binge eating;
• violation of chewing function;
• long-term restriction of physical activity and sedentary lifestyle.

Mechanism of action of the drug

The drug is taken with or after food. Side effects are rare, but possible problems with stool consistency, allergies, nausea and vomiting. In terms of action and composition, Mikrasim is closest to Creon.

Kreazim

The medication is a representative of a pharmacological group, the purpose of which is to improve digestive function. This is achieved by replenishing the lack of enzymes. It contains pancreatin, an extract from the pancreas of livestock. The active component has lipo-, amylo- and proteolytic activity.

It is used for inflammatory processes of the gastrointestinal tract, which are manifested by impaired secretion of pancreatic enzymes.

Limitations in the use of Kreazim are hypersecretory pancreatitis and manifestations of a negative reaction of the body to the components of the drug. The medicine is absorbed as much as possible during or after meals, washed down with a sufficient amount of water. Side effects may include hypersensitivity reactions including bronchospasm, constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, abdominal pain, urticaria, etc.

Panzinorm Forte

Belongs to a class of substances that replace pancreatic enzymes and also promote their production. The composition contains three enzymes - protease, amylase and lipase. These substances enhance the breakdown of molecular bonds in nutrients and promote their rapid and complete absorption. It is used to treat the following disorders:

• atrophic gastritis;
• gastroduodenitis;
• enterocolitis;
• cholecystitis.

Release forms

It is also effective as a component of rehabilitation therapy after operations on the gastrointestinal tract. The drug enhances intestinal motor function, therefore it is used for prolonged forced immobilization and physical inactivity.

Contraindications include hepatitis, obstructive jaundice, intestinal obstruction and intolerance to individual components of the drug. Side effects are rare, but diarrhea may develop. Panzinorm Forte differs from Creon only in the release form; instead of capsules, it is produced in the form of tablets.

Medicines for ulcers and gastritis

Therapy for these diseases should be prescribed by a doctor, taking into account the existing symptoms. These pathologies are interrelated, so the drugs for their treatment are similar. Most often, their action is aimed at neutralizing H. Pylori. Tablets prescribed for abdominal pain can be divided into 4 categories.

Antibiotics

Gastroenterologists carefully select antibiotic treatment. It is necessary to compare the risks of side effects and the beneficial effect. Most often, a two-week course of antibiotic therapy is the only way to eradicate H. Pylori.

Proton pump inhibitors

The action of these medications is aimed at blocking the release of bile acid, which accelerates the healing of ulcers.

Do not forget that using inhibitors in large dosages for severe stomach pain is too risky. Leukopenia, nervous disorders, and myalgia are highly likely to develop.

H-2 histamine receptor blockers

Their action is aimed at reducing acid production in the stomach. Under the influence of drugs, acid is formed in minimal quantities, which does not allow the ulcer to grow.

Antacids

They neutralize stomach acid, reducing pain. But experts emphasize that antacids quickly eliminate pain without getting rid of its cause. That is, these drugs do not promote healing of ulcers. In addition, they are often produced in the form of suspensions, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and constipation.

Generics for children

The medications listed above are not recommended for use by persons under 12 years of age. This is due to the fact that the dosage of these medications is too high for a child’s body. In order to treat children, the following drugs were released.

Abomin

The medication compensates for the deficiency of proteolytic enzymes, and therefore helps restore normal digestive processes. The main active ingredient is abomin, which is an extract from the mucous membrane of the stomach of livestock. Its action begins in the stomach and ends in the small intestine.

Description of the drug

Used to treat conditions associated with impaired digestive activity and decreased acidity of gastric juice. Used enterally with food. Contraindications are:

• intestinal obstruction;
• spitting up and vomiting syndrome in children;
• allergy to certain components.

Adverse reactions are rare, but nausea and heartburn may occur.

Unlike Kreonchik, Abomin is not able to cope with the breakdown of fats and carbohydrates, so its use is limited only by disruption of protein hydrolysis.

Vestal

The medication is a complex enzyme-containing agent. The main active component is pancreatin, which is capable of breaking down all major groups of nutrients. It is characterized by improved digestion by compensating for the deficiency of lipase, amylase and protease. It is used as replacement therapy for insufficiency of exocrine pancreatic activity.

Such conditions and diseases include:

• gastritis;
• pancreatitis;
• qualitative and quantitative diet violation;
• hepatitis;
• cholecystitis.

Cholecystitis

Available in tablet form and taken during or immediately after meals. Contraindications include intestinal obstruction in any part and a history of hyperreactivity to individual components of the drug. In terms of the direction of action, Vestal is no different from Kreonchik. The only difference between them is the release form, which is a tablet of compressed pancreatin powder, rather than gastro-resistant granules.

Lactrase

It is a representative of the group of enzyme-containing drugs. The composition contains lactase, a substance that catalyzes the breakdown of lactose into glucose and galactose in the lumen of the small intestine. The medication is used for carbohydrate metabolism disorders associated with a deficiency of enzyme systems. These conditions include hypolactasia and analactasia. It is also possible to use the drug in patients with diabetes.

Use of the drug for secretory acute intestinal infections

Take the medicine before taking dairy products; it is possible to add the medicine directly to food. Side effects are rare, but discomfort in the epigastric region may occur.

Contraindications include hypersensitivity to individual components of the drug. Lactrase can cope only with limited disorders of carbohydrate metabolism, while Creonchik is also used for insufficient digestion of proteins and fats.

Enzyme preparations: what are considered analogues?

There are many drugs to improve digestion, but choosing the best one is not so easy. This group of medicines is also called enzyme preparations, since they contain digestive enzymes for better digestion of food. A lack of your own enzymes can occur when you overeat, have irregular meals, or eat too fatty and fried foods. Typically, the active ingredient of such drugs is pancreatin.

Many can remember how their grandmothers and parents took enzymes in the form of pink tablets. It seems that we have been taking these pills for so many years that they are probably suitable for everyone. Moreover, their quality seems to be tested by time and the experience of loved ones.

When it comes to simple things in our everyday life, indeed, many old things seem stronger and more reliable. However, when we consider such an important area as health and medicine, technological solutions and scientific discoveries are important here. Any help to the body becomes more and more accurate and targeted. If progress does not stand still, why use outdated technologies? Today, none of us uses black and white televisions.

How to make an informed choice of an enzyme preparation based on facts, discarding misconceptions?

Our advice:

1. 1) Look at the lipase content in the preparation.
2. 2) Understand the differences and purpose of enzyme preparations.

For heaviness after eating, you need at least 10,000 units of lipase from the outside. That is why special attention should be paid to its quantity in the preparation.

Lipase is a type of digestive enzyme that digests fats. You can often see a number on the packaging of enzyme preparations (for example, 10,000 or 25,000); it indicates the number of lipase units. However, not all drugs have the same amount of lipase, even though the active ingredient is the same.

It will be interesting to see that even among pancreatin tablets the amount of lipase may differ. Most existing drugs contain from 25 to 4500 units of an important enzyme. For an optimal dosage of 10,000 units, not 1 or 2 tablets may be required, which is why the instructions for some drugs indicate that 2-4 tablets may be required per dose1.

However, lipase content is not the only criterion of difference.

In the case of enzyme preparations, the key difference is the release form. Over the course of many years of history, science has come to the conclusion that the tablet form is not ideal for the task of an enzyme preparation: it cannot follow the physiological path of food to replicate natural digestion as closely as possible.

The task of the enzyme preparation is to replicate natural human digestion as accurately as possible.

As a result of scientific research, it turned out that the size of the particles in the form of which the drug enters the digestive system matters. The smaller the particle size of the enzyme preparation, the more effective it is2. Compared to a tablet, it is evenly mixed with food in the stomach and therefore participates more fully in the digestion process. This makes it easier for it to pass from the stomach to the intestines with each serving of food to participate in the key stage of digestion. If this does not happen, and the drug remains in the stomach, it simply will not be able to help digestion.

Attention! Enzyme preparations work in the intestines, and not in the stomach, as is commonly believed.

To protect the small particles from the destructive environment of the stomach, they were placed in a Creon® capsule. Today Creon® is the only drug on the Russian market containing small particles of pancreatin - minimicrospheres3.

Thanks to the optimal lipase content and mini-microspheres, in case of heaviness and discomfort after eating, 1 capsule of Creon® 10 0002 is usually sufficient.

Advantages of Creon®:

• Creon® capsule dissolves quickly in the stomach4.
• Small particles help in digesting maximum volume of food5.
• Delivers enzymes from the outside in the same way as if the body produced them itself.
• When taking Creon®, the body does not stop digesting food itself6.

To learn more

The action of Creon® fundamentally distinguishes it from other drugs in tablets, so calling it an analogue is not entirely correct.

Unlike pancreatin tablets, Creon® is approved for use in children from birth4, and the capsule with minimicrospheres is especially convenient to use. Small particles can be poured out of the capsule or mixed with baby food or juice4 to make them easier for the baby to swallow. You can't do this with a large solid tablet.

See the differences between Creon® and pancreatin tablets.