Creon

Creon (pancrelipase) is a prescription medication made by AbbVie that contains a mixture of digestive enzymes — lipase, protease, and amylase — derived from pork pancreas. It is used to replace or supplement the digestive enzymes that the pancreas fails to produce in sufficient amounts in people with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI).

Without insurance, Creon can cost between $500 and $1,500 per month depending on the dose and quantity needed. AbbVie offers assistance programs for patients who struggle to afford it.

How to Afford Creon

• Uninsured patients who meet income requirements may receive Creon at no cost through myAbbVie Assist.
• Commercially insured patients can lower their out-of-pocket costs with the Creon Savings Card.

ClariMeds will determine which free program for Creon you qualify for and manage the entire enrollment process.

What Does Creon Treat?

Creon is FDA-approved to treat exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) caused by:

• Cystic fibrosis (CF) — one of the most common causes of EPI, particularly in children
• Chronic pancreatitis (long-term pancreatic inflammation)
• Pancreatic surgery, including the Whipple procedure
• Pancreatic cancer or other conditions that damage the pancreas

Without adequate digestive enzymes, patients cannot properly absorb fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, leading to malnutrition, weight loss, and fatty, oily stools (steatorrhea).

How Creon Works

Creon is taken with every meal and snack. The capsules are swallowed whole or opened and mixed with slightly acidic soft food (like applesauce). Once in the small intestine, the enteric-coated microspheres dissolve and release the enzymes, which break down fats (lipase), proteins (protease), and carbohydrates (amylase) — allowing the body to absorb nutrients normally. The dose is adjusted based on the fat content of meals and the patient's weight.