PancrePlus Powder for Dogs and Cats
Digestive enzyme replacement therapy for pancreatic insufficiency in pets
PancrePlus Powder: Pancreatic Enzyme Support for Your Pet
PancrePlus Powder is a specialized pancreatic enzyme concentrate derived from porcine (pig) sources, designed to serve as a digestive aid in replacement therapy for pets experiencing inadequate digestion of protein, carbohydrate, and fat due to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). This prescription medication contains a precise blend of three essential digestive enzymes that work together to restore your pet’s ability to properly break down and absorb nutrients from their food. Whether your dog or cat has been diagnosed with EPI or is experiencing digestive difficulties, PancrePlus Powder offers a reliable solution to improve their quality of life and nutritional status.
Understanding PancrePlus Powder
What Is PancrePlus Powder?
PancrePlus Powder is a pharmaceutical-grade pancreatic enzyme product manufactured by Neogen Corporation. The product exists under multiple brand names, including Viokase-V Powder and Pancreved Powder, all containing pancrelipase as the active ingredient. The powder form makes it easy to administer by simply mixing it with your pet’s food. Available in several sizes—4 oz, 8 oz, and 12 oz bottles—PancrePlus Powder is formulated as a light tan to brown powder that mixes seamlessly into moistened food without affecting palatability or taste.
Active Ingredients and Enzyme Profile
Each teaspoon (2.8 grams) of PancrePlus Powder contains a potent combination of three pancreatic enzymes:
- Lipase: 71,400 USP units – Responsible for breaking down dietary fats into absorbable fatty acids and glycerol
- Protease: 388,000 USP units – Breaks down proteins into amino acids for muscle development and tissue repair
- Amylase: 460,000 USP units – Processes carbohydrates into glucose for energy production
These three enzymes work synergistically to replicate the natural digestive process that a healthy pancreas would perform. By providing these enzymes in concentrated form, PancrePlus Powder compensates for the pancreas’s inability to produce sufficient amounts on its own.
Benefits of PancrePlus Powder
Primary Therapeutic Benefits
PancrePlus Powder offers several significant advantages for pets with pancreatic insufficiency:
- Restores Digestive Enzyme Levels: Provides the essential enzymes your pet’s pancreas cannot produce, enabling proper food breakdown
- Improves Nutrient Absorption: Ensures pets receive full nutritional benefit from their diet, combating malnutrition and malabsorption
- Alleviates EPI Symptoms: Reduces chronic diarrhea, bloating, flatulence, weight loss, and irregular bowel movements
- Supports Weight Management: Assists pets in returning to and maintaining a healthy body weight
- Enhances Coat and Skin Health: Proper nutrient absorption leads to improved coat condition and overall appearance
- Increases Energy Levels: Better digestion and nutrient uptake translate to improved vitality and activity
Targeted Treatment Applications
PancrePlus Powder is specifically indicated for treating pancreatic insufficiency disorder (PID) and maldigestion syndrome in dogs and cats. It is prescribed when a pet’s body is not making a sufficient amount of pancreatic enzymes naturally. This medication is particularly valuable for pets whose digestive systems have been compromised, allowing them to thrive on a normal diet with appropriate enzyme supplementation.
Administration and Dosage Guidelines
How to Administer PancrePlus Powder
Proper administration is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of PancrePlus Powder. The medication should be given before each meal according to veterinary instructions. Here are the essential steps for correct administration:
- Mix the powder thoroughly into moistened food (either canned or dry food that has been dampened)
- Allow the mixture to stand at room temperature for 15-20 minutes after mixing to allow enzymes to come into close contact with food particles
- Administer the food mixture immediately after the standing period for optimal enzyme activity
- The bottle includes a 1/4 teaspoon measuring scoop for accurate, consistent dosing
Dosage Determination
Dosage is individualized and estimated by your veterinarian according to several factors:
- The severity of your pet’s pancreatic insufficiency
- Your pet’s body weight
- Your pet’s response to initial treatment
- The specific diet being fed
Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate starting dose and may adjust it based on how well your pet responds to treatment. Regular monitoring ensures your pet receives the optimal dose for their individual needs.
Safety Precautions
When handling and administering PancrePlus Powder, take the following precautions to avoid irritation:
- Avoid inhaling the powder while administering it to your pet
- Do not allow the powder to come into contact with your skin
- Wash your hands and skin thoroughly if contact occurs
- Store the powder in a cool, dry place away from moisture
Product Specifications and Packaging
Available Sizes
PancrePlus Powder is available in multiple package sizes to accommodate different pet needs and usage rates:
| Package Size | NDC Code | Appearance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 oz | Standard | Light tan to brown powder | Trial period or small pets |
| 8 oz | 13985-0081-42 | Light tan to brown powder | Regular use for medium pets |
| 12 oz | 13985-0081-53 | Light tan to brown powder | Long-term therapy or large pets |
Measurement and Storage
Each bottle includes a convenient 1/4 teaspoon measuring scoop, eliminating guesswork and ensuring consistent, accurate dosing with every administration. This precise measurement system helps pet owners maintain proper therapeutic levels without over- or under-dosing their pets.
Long-Term Use and Pet Care Considerations
Suitability for Extended Therapy
PancrePlus Powder is suitable for long-term use under veterinary supervision. Since exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is typically a permanent condition, most pets require lifelong enzyme supplementation to manage symptoms and maintain digestive health. Regular veterinary check-ups ensure proper dosage and allow for dietary adjustments as your pet’s needs change.
Dietary Recommendations
Pets receiving PancrePlus Powder often benefit from specific dietary modifications:
- Low-fat diets: Reduces the digestive burden while enzymes support nutrient absorption
- High-digestibility foods: Formulated to be easier for compromised digestive systems to process
- Avoid complex carbohydrates: May interfere with enzyme efficacy
- Limit excessive fiber: Can reduce enzyme activity and nutrient absorption
Consult your veterinarian for personalized dietary guidelines tailored to your specific pet’s needs and response to treatment.
Medication Interactions
PancrePlus Powder is generally safe to use with other medications; however, it is essential to inform your veterinarian of all treatments your pet is receiving. Some medications or supplements may require timing adjustments to avoid interactions. Your veterinarian can provide specific guidance on spacing doses of different medications if needed.
Signs That Your Pet May Need PancrePlus Powder
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency presents with several characteristic symptoms that may indicate a need for enzyme supplementation:
- Chronic diarrhea: Persistent loose stools despite dietary changes
- Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss despite normal or increased appetite
- Flatulence: Excessive gas and digestive discomfort
- Poor coat condition: Dull, dry, or unhealthy-looking fur
- Increased appetite: Voracious eating without corresponding weight gain
- Bloating: Abdominal distension and discomfort
- Malnutrition symptoms: Overall decline in health despite adequate food intake
If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and testing. A veterinary diagnosis is essential before starting PancrePlus Powder treatment to ensure the underlying cause is correctly identified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is PancrePlus Powder used for?
A: PancrePlus Powder is prescribed to manage exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) in dogs and cats. It compensates for the lack of pancreatic enzymes needed for digesting fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, ensuring proper nutrient absorption and improving your pet’s overall digestive health.
Q: How does PancrePlus Powder work?
A: The product provides three essential enzymes—Lipase, Protease, and Amylase—that mimic the pancreas’s natural function. These enzymes break down food into absorbable nutrients, alleviating symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and weight loss caused by EPI.
Q: Can PancrePlus Powder be used for pets other than dogs and cats?
A: PancrePlus Powder is specifically formulated and approved for dogs and cats. While pancrelipase has been used in birds and rabbits under veterinary supervision, the standard PancrePlus Powder product is designed for canine and feline patients.
Q: Can PancrePlus Powder be used long-term?
A: Yes, PancrePlus Powder is suitable for long-term use under veterinary supervision. EPI requires lifelong enzyme supplementation to manage symptoms and maintain digestive health. Regular check-ups ensure proper dosage and dietary adjustments.
Q: Are there any side effects associated with PancrePlus Powder?
A: PancrePlus Powder is generally well-tolerated when administered as directed. The main precaution is to avoid inhalation of the powder and direct skin contact, which can cause irritation. Most pets tolerate the medication without adverse reactions when properly introduced.
Q: Is PancrePlus Powder effective for other digestive issues?
A: PancrePlus Powder is specifically designed for pets with EPI. It may not be effective for other digestive disorders, such as food allergies or inflammatory bowel disease, unless prescribed by a veterinarian for specific conditions.
Q: How should I introduce PancrePlus Powder to my pet?
A: Introduce PancrePlus Powder gradually to allow your pet to adjust to the new enzymes. Begin with the veterinarian-recommended dosage and monitor for any adverse reactions. Always provide fresh water to ensure hydration.
Q: How is PancrePlus Powder different from tablets or capsules?
A: The powder form is often preferred because it mixes easily with food and activates more quickly than tablets or capsules. The powder should be mixed with food and allowed to stand for 15-20 minutes before feeding.
Purchasing and Veterinary Partnership
PancrePlus Powder is a prescription medication available through veterinary clinics and partnered pharmacy services. VCA Animal Hospitals partners with Vetsource, a leading veterinary pharmacy services provider, to fill prescriptions and deliver orders directly to your home. Every order placed is reviewed by both your pet’s veterinarian and a Vetsource pharmacist to ensure accuracy and appropriateness before processing. This dual-review system ensures your pet receives the correct medication at the proper dosage for their specific condition.
Conclusion
PancrePlus Powder represents an effective, veterinarian-approved solution for managing exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in dogs and cats. By providing essential pancreatic enzymes in a convenient powder form, this medication helps pets digest food properly, absorb vital nutrients, and return to a healthy, active lifestyle. If your pet has been diagnosed with EPI or exhibits signs of pancreatic insufficiency, discuss PancrePlus Powder with your veterinarian to determine if it is the right treatment option for your companion’s specific needs and circumstances.
References
- PancrePlus Powder Product Information — Banfield Pet Hospital. 2024. https://shop.banfield.com/pancreplus-powder.html
- PancrePlus Powder for Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency in Pets — Hardy Paw. 2024. https://hardypaw.com/products/pancreplus-powder-for-dogs-and-cats
- Label: PANCREPLUS – Pancreatic Enzyme Powder — U.S. National Library of Medicine, DailyMed. 2024. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=9e33dd25-28d0-49f5-855d-4df3558b0603
- Pancrelipase Overview and Administration Guide — VCA Animal Hospitals. 2024. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/pancrelipase
- PancrePlus Powder Shop Information — VCA Animal Hospitals. 2024. https://vcahospitals.com/shop/product/pancreplus-powder
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