If you have ongoing (chronic) pancreatitis caused by excessive use of alcohol, you will need to quit drinking to reduce severe pain and complications. Drinking large amounts when you have chronic pancreatitis can shorten your life.⁵ For more information on quitting alcohol, see the topic Alcohol Abuse and Dependence.

You also should avoid using medicines that can inflame the pancreas, such as corticosteroids and certain antibiotics.

Although the role of diet in pancreatitis is not clear, doctors recommend eating a low-fat diet and staying at a healthy body weight.