Thepancreasis an organ thats found behind the stomach.
It produces enzymes and hormones that are needed for digestion.
The pancreas can become inflamed from illness or injury, which is calledpancreatitis.
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When this inflammation goes on for a long time, its called chronic pancreatitis.
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Chronic Pancreatitis Medications
Medications may be given to treat chronic pancreatitis.
Antioxidants, pancreatic enzymes, and pain medications might be used to help manage symptoms.
A combination of pancreatic enzymes and various antioxidants might be the first treatment thats tried.
These medications couldhelp reduce painfor as many as 50% of people who have chronic pancreatitis.
These may be given in combination with other medications to control pain.
Pancreatic enzymes are given by prescription.
They are taken at meal time and can help reduce the digestive symptoms that may go along with pancreatitis.
Pain Medications
Chronic pancreatitis may cause chronic abdominal pain.
These medications may also work to reduce the inflammation in the pancreas.
Another drug that may be prescribed for pain is Lyrica (pregabalin).
This drug controls pain by having an effect on thecentral nervous system.
In one study, the combination of antioxidants and Lyrica helped reduce the pain for 50% of people.
Its not recommended for use in people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Some of the most common side effects are:
NSAIDs are available over the counter and as a prescription.
The use of NSAIDs long term may come with some risks.
The risks with NSAIDs are thought to increase as a person gets older.
However, they may have adverse effects if they are taken in amounts that could be toxic.
Other Treatment Options
Most of the time, chronic pancreatitis is first treated with medications.
Dye is also sent down through the endoscope, and then X-rays are taken.
Surgery is also sometimes used for chronic pancreatitis.
Pancreatitis can be associated with stones in the pancreatic bile ducts.
These stones can block the pancreatic ducts and prevent the pancreatic juices from traveling through.
If surgery is determined to be the best option, it can take different forms.
It could mean removing part or all of the pancreas.
These operations can be complex and will need to be done by a specialist team.
That could mean taking medications or supplements and going back to a healthcare provider for regular checkups.
Nutrition and Diet
A part of treating chronic pancreatitis is lifestyle changes andnutrition management.
Quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol are other ways to manage chronic pancreatitis and lessen its symptoms.
Is Chronic Pancreatitis Curable?
Unfortunately, there is not a cure for chronic pancreatitis.
Its more accurate to say that this condition is manageable.
Summary
Chronic pancreatitis can cause pain and digestive symptoms.
A Word From Verywell
Living with chronic pancreatitis is challenging.
Its important to get the physical aspects of this condition under control.
Its recommended that people with chronic pancreatitis first try Tylenol (acetaminophen) or NSAIDs to manage their pain.
However, there are other options available, including Lyrica and even opioids.
There are benefits and drawbacks to all of these medications.
There is currently no cure for chronic pancreatitis.
However, people can expect to live many years after their symptoms start.
Its estimated that most people with chronic pancreatitis will live for 1520 years after being diagnosed.
However, one study showed that 83% of people lived 35 years after their symptoms began.
Singh VK, Yadav D, Garg PK.Diagnosis and management of chronic pancreatitis: a review.JAMA.
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Pfizer.Lyrica prescribing information.
2017;62(7):17021712. doi:10.1007/s10620-017-4602-2
