Digesteaze is a palatable powdered enzyme supplement for use as a digestive aid to control signs of Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI). It is a pancreatic enzyme concentrate derived from fresh porcine pancreas.

Composition
Each level measure contains Amylase 25,000 units, Protease 25,000 units and Lipase 3,250 units.

Indications
Digesteaze is indicated as a digestive aid where digestion of protein, carbohydrate and fat is inadequate due to EPI. Supplementation with pancreatic enzymes results in the digestion of dietary fat, proteins and carbohydrates and makes these essential nutrients systemically available.

Discussion
The exocrine pancreas is an accessory digestive organ that secretes fluid containing digestive enzymes and sodium bicarbonate into the intestinal lumen via the pancreatic duct, resulting in digestion of food and neutralisation of gastric hydrochloric acid. In the condition known as EPI the ability to properly digest food is impaired because the enzymes made by the pancreas (amylases, lipases and proteases) are absent. This disease is found frequently in dogs.

Digesteaze is indicated as a digestive aid where digestion of protein, carbohydrate and fat is inadequate due to EPI.

However, the reserve capacity of the pancreas is enormous and, in the dog, protein digestion is not impaired until 85 to 90 percent of the pancreas is removed or destroyed.

EPI is caused by a progressive loss of the pancreatic cells that make digestive enzymes. Most commonly in dogs, this is caused by pancreatic acinar atrophy. The atrophy in turn can be caused by previous infections, a blocked pancreatic duct, or genetics. Chronic pancreatitis is the most common cause of EPI in humans and cats, but it is an uncommon cause in dogs. Loss of digestive enzymes leads to maldigestion and malabsorption of nutrients.

Many different breeds have been diagnosed with EPI, but it is found most commonly in German Shepherd Dogs (about 66% of cases seen), Rough-Coated Collies and English Setters. Other breeds reported to be predisposed to EPI include terrier breeds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Chow Chows.

Symptoms of EPI include weight loss, poor hair coat, flatulence, increased appetite, coprophagia and diarrhoea. Faeces are often yellow-gray in colour with an oily texture.

Most dogs and cats with EPI can be successfully treated by dietary supplementation with pancreatic enzymes. Preparations of the enzymes in powder form are more effective than 1 tablets, capsules, and especially enteric-coated products . This has been substantiated in human patients with EPI.

Directions for use
Add one level measure (about 3.5 grams) of DIGESTEAZE to each meal for animals weighing more than 10kg and half a measure for animals less than 10kg. In cases where large dog breeds (> 10kg) do not respond to treatment, the dose may be increased to 7g of DigestEaze. Add to moistened food (canned or dry) and mix thoroughly to bring enzymes in close contact with food. The dose may be increased if no improvement is noted . If diarrhoea ceases and weight gain is observed over a two-week period the regimen may be maintained and the dose decreased gradually to achieve the lowest effective dose.

Pre-incubation — allowing the food-enzyme mixture to stand for 15-20 minutes before feeding —reportedly improves the outcome, although this has not been clinically proven.

Caution
Do not overdose. High doses may cause gastrointestinal distress. Discontinue use in animals with symptoms of sensitivity.