Overview

Proteolytic enzymes (proteases) are enzymes that break down protein. These enzymes are made by animals, plants, fungi, and bacteria.

Proteolytic enzymes break down proteins in the body or on the skin. This might help with digestion or with the breakdown of proteins involved in swelling and pain. Some proteolytic enzymes that may be found in supplements include bromelain, chymotrypsin, ficin, papain, serrapeptase, and trypsin.

Proteolytic enzymes are used for a long list of conditions including cleaning wounds on the skin, help with digestion, pain and swelling, and many other conditions. Refer to specific topics for more information on uses and effects.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

We currently have no information for PROTEOLYTIC ENZYMES (PROTEASES) overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Proteolytic enzymes are possibly safe when taken appropriately. Side effects are usually mild or moderate and include stomach and intestinal complaints. See specific proteolytic enzymes for more detailed safety information.

When applied to the skin: Proteolytic enzymes are possibly safe when applied to the skin. Some may cause allergic reactions. See specific proteolytic enzymes for more detailed safety information.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Proteolytic enzymes are possibly safe when taken appropriately. Side effects are usually mild or moderate and include stomach and intestinal complaints. See specific proteolytic enzymes for more detailed safety information.

When applied to the skin: Proteolytic enzymes are possibly safe when applied to the skin. Some may cause allergic reactions. See specific proteolytic enzymes for more detailed safety information. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if proteolytic enzymes are safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Interactions ?

We currently have no information for PROTEOLYTIC ENZYMES (PROTEASES) overview.

Dosing

See specific proteolytic enzymes for dosing information.
View References

CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.