Can I take Pancreatin and Lixiana together?

Why this happens

Pancreatin consists of digestive enzymes (lipase, protease, and amylase) that break down fats, proteins, and starches in the digestive tract. Lixiana is an oral anticoagulant (blood thinner). These two medications do not share the same metabolic pathways in the liver, nor do they interfere with each other's absorption or clinical effects.

You can safely take these two medications together. It is important to take your pancreatin exactly as prescribed (usually with or immediately after a meal or snack) to ensure your food is digested properly. Continue taking your Lixiana at the same time each day as directed by your doctor.

Bleeding risk and surgery

You must tell any doctor, dentist, or surgeon that you are taking Lixiana before any procedure, as it increases your risk of serious bleeding. You may need to stop taking it temporarily.

Spinal or epidural anaesthesia- lixiana

If you require an injection into your spine (like an epidural), there is a risk of a blood clot forming in your spine which can cause paralysis. Inform your doctor immediately if you feel numbness or weakness in your legs after a procedure.

Pork allergy

Pancreatin is made from the pancreas of pigs. You must not take it if you have a confirmed allergy to pork or porcine products.

Fibrosing colonopathy

If you experience unusual abdominal pain, swelling, or constipation, contact your doctor immediately. High doses of pancreatin have rarely been linked to a serious bowel condition called fibrosing colonopathy.

Mouth irritation

Do not hold the capsules or powder in your mouth. Pancreatin contains active enzymes that can cause severe irritation and ulcers of the mouth and throat if not swallowed immediately with plenty of water.

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking Lixiana. Alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding in your stomach and intestines, and heavy drinking can affect how your blood clots.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking pancreatin. Alcohol can worsen the underlying conditions for which pancreatin is prescribed (such as pancreatitis) and can interfere with how well your body absorbs nutrients.

Hot food and drinks

Do not mix pancreatin capsules or powder with very hot food or drinks. Heat can destroy the enzymes in the medicine, making it less effective at helping you digest your food.

Alkaline foods (e.g., milk, yoghurt) - pancreatin

If you open the capsules to sprinkle the granules onto food, do not use alkaline foods like milk or yoghurt. The granules have a protective coating that dissolves in alkaline environments; if this happens in your mouth or throat, it can cause irritation and the medicine will not work properly in your gut. Use acidic food like apple sauce instead.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.