Bovine Pancreas Cytosol Extract
Also known as: Pancreas extract, Pancreatic tissue extract, Bovine pancreatic cytosol, Bovine Pancreas Cytosol Extract
Overview
Bovine pancreas cytosol extract is derived from the cytosolic fraction of bovine pancreas tissue and is a complex mixture of enzymes, proteins, and other cellular components. It contains digestive enzymes such as amylase, lipase, and trypsin, which are essential for the digestion of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Primarily used to support digestive health, it is particularly beneficial for individuals with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) or impaired pancreatic function. The extract is often formulated in enteric-coated forms to protect the enzymes from stomach acid, ensuring they remain active in the small intestine where they facilitate nutrient absorption. Research on pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), which includes bovine pancreas-derived enzymes, supports its efficacy in improving nutrient absorption and reducing gastrointestinal symptoms associated with malabsorption. While specific studies on bovine pancreas cytosol extract are less common, the available evidence from PERT studies provides a solid foundation for its use.
Benefits
Bovine pancreas cytosol extract, as part of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), has shown significant benefits in improving nutrient absorption. A meta-analysis on PERT demonstrated improvements in the coefficient of fat absorption (CFA) with a weighted mean difference (WMD) of 26.56 (95% CI: 20.35 to 32.76, p < 0.001) compared to baseline, and 17.97 (95% CI: 12.61 to 23.34, p < 0.001) compared to placebo. These improvements indicate better fat digestion and absorption. It also reduces stool fat excretion (SFE), stool nitrogen excretion (SNE), and stool weight (SW), all of which are clinically significant for patients with EPI. The benefits are typically observed within a few weeks of starting therapy, making it a valuable supplement for those with pancreatic enzyme deficiencies. However, it is not effective for relieving abdominal pain in chronic pancreatitis patients.
How it works
Bovine pancreas cytosol extract contains enzymes that break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into smaller, absorbable molecules. These enzymes, including amylase, lipase, and trypsin, target dietary proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, respectively. The enzymes interact with the gastrointestinal system, primarily in the small intestine, where they facilitate nutrient absorption. Enteric coating protects the enzymes from stomach acid, ensuring they remain active until they reach the small intestine. By supplementing the body's natural enzyme production, the extract enhances digestion and nutrient uptake, particularly in individuals with pancreatic insufficiency.
Side effects
Bovine pancreas cytosol extract is generally considered safe when used as directed, but it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include abdominal pain/discomfort and flatulence, although these do not differ significantly from placebo groups. Less common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Rarely, allergic reactions or hypersensitivity to bovine-derived components can occur. There are no significant drug interactions reported, but caution should be exercised when using with other medications that affect the gastrointestinal system. It is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to bovine products or any component of the supplement. Patients with known allergies to bovine products should avoid this supplement to prevent potential allergic reactions.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of bovine pancreas cytosol extract varies depending on the specific formulation and individual needs, but typically ranges from 10,000 to 40,000 units of lipase per meal. Dosages are often adjusted based on the patient's response and the severity of EPI. It is recommended to take the enzymes with meals to maximize their effectiveness. Enteric-coated forms are preferred to protect the enzymes from stomach acid. While there is no established maximum safe dose, high doses should be used under medical supervision to avoid potential side effects. Adequate hydration is also important to support enzyme activity.
FAQs
How should I take bovine pancreas cytosol extract?
Take it with meals, preferably in an enteric-coated form to protect the enzymes from stomach acid and ensure they are active in the small intestine.
What is the appropriate dosage?
Dosage should be adjusted based on individual needs and under medical supervision, typically ranging from 10,000 to 40,000 units of lipase per meal.
What are the potential side effects?
Monitor for abdominal pain, flatulence, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Allergic reactions are rare but possible, so watch for signs of hypersensitivity.
What results can I expect?
Expect improved nutrient absorption and reduced symptoms of malabsorption, particularly if you have exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI).
Is it effective for relieving abdominal pain in chronic pancreatitis?
No, contrary to some beliefs, it is not effective for relieving abdominal pain in chronic pancreatitis patients. Other treatments should be considered for pain management.
Research Sources
- https://www.oncotarget.com/article/21659/text/ – This meta-analysis on PERT, which includes bovine pancreas-derived enzymes, showed significant improvements in CFA, CNA, SFE, SNE, and SW compared to baseline and placebo. The study highlights the effectiveness of PERT in improving nutrient absorption and reducing gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with pancreatic enzyme deficiencies. However, it also notes considerable heterogeneity among the included studies.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27446871/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of pancreatic enzyme supplementation for chronic pancreatitis. The study found no significant improvement in pain scores or analgesic consumption compared to placebo. The findings suggest that pancreatic enzyme supplementation is not effective for pain relief in patients with chronic pancreatitis.
- https://www.danielsfamilychiro.com/storage/app/media/Patient_Information-_Supplementation/Zypan.pdf – This document provides patient information on Zypan, a supplement containing pancreatic enzymes. It highlights the role of pancreatic enzymes in supporting digestion and nutrient absorption. The information is intended for patient education and should be used in consultation with a healthcare professional.
Supplements Containing Bovine Pancreas Cytosol Extract
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