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Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) for pancreatic cancer

We explain pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), including Creon®, Nutrizym® and Pancrex®. This can help you digest food and manage problems with diet and digestion caused by pancreatic cancer, like weight loss.

What's in the 'Diet and pancreatic cancer' information section?

Key facts about PERT

  • Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) can help you manage the digestion symptoms you may get when you have pancreatic cancer. It can make a big difference to how you feel.
  • PERT is available on the NHS. The brand names are Creon®, Nutrizym® and Pancrex®.
  • You take PERT as capsules with your food. You should take it with most food, including meals, snacks and milky drinks.
  • You should take more capsules when you are eating larger meals, taking longer to eat, or eating fattier foods.

What is pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy?

Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) replaces the enzymes that your pancreas would normally make.

How does PERT help with pancreatic cancer symptoms?

PERT comes as capsules that you take when you eat. These help you to digest your food by breaking down carbohydrates, fats and proteins in your food. Most people with pancreatic cancer will need to take PERT.

If you need PERT, you will need to take it for the rest of your life as your pancreas will not start making enzymes again.

If you haven’t been told about PERT, ask your doctor, nurse or dietitian about it. You could show them this information.

If you are having problems getting PERT

We know there are currently problems with the supply of brands of PERT, including Creon, Nutrizym and Pancrex. If you are having problems getting PERT, get in touch with your dietitian, hospital team or GP for advice.

We can also help.

You can also contact our specialist nurses on the Support Line for information and support if you are running low on PERT. Our nurses can help with managing symptoms linked to a lack of enzymes. Please be aware though that we can’t help you access PERT – we can only provide information.

Can I use vegetarian or vegan enzymes?

All pancreatic enzymes are made from pork products, and there is no alternative. You may see vegetarian or vegan enzymes in shops or online, but these are not used for pancreatic cancer as there is no evidence that they work.

Organisations representing Jewish and Muslim communities have said that it is acceptable to use pork based treatments. The Vegetarian Society and Vegan Society have also said that they are acceptable. Talk to your doctor or dietitian if you are allergic to pork products or have concerns about taking enzymes.

Order or download our fact sheet

Get detailed information about how to take PERT in our fact sheet, How to manage problems with digestion using pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT).

Download the fact sheet

Order the fact sheet

Join a webinar: Pancreatic cancer, diet and you

Your diet and the food you eat play an important part in your life. But what do you do when you have pancreatic cancer? Whether you’ve been diagnosed yourself or are supporting a loved one, join our online session on Tuesday 20th May to hear from a dietitian and two of our specialist nurses. They’ll talk about common symptoms you may experience linked to your diet and digestion. You’ll learn why these symptoms happen and tips to help you manage them, including foods to eat or avoid.

Find out more and book your place

More resources

How do I take pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy?

Read more

What symptoms will PERT help with?

Read more

Who is the dietitian?

Read more

Updated March 2025

Review date March 2028

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