Serrapeptase

Uses

What is serrapeptase used for?

Serrapeptase, also known as serratiopeptidase, is an enzyme that breaks down proteins. It’s produced by bacteria (Serratia spp) in the digestive tract of silkworms and allows the emerging moth to digest and dissolve its cocoon.

This medication is commonly used for painful conditions including back pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome, migraine headache, and tension headache.

It is also used for conditions that involve pain and swelling (inflammation) including sinusitis, laryngitis, sore throat, ear infections, swelling after surgery, swelling of a vein with the formation of a blood clot (thrombophlebitis), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Some people use it for heart disease and hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis).

Women use it for non-cancerous lumpy breasts (fibrocystic breast disease), and nursing mothers use it for breast pain caused by too much milk (breast engorgement).

It may be used for other purposes, ask your doctor for more information.

How should I take serrapeptase?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth on an empty stomach. Swallow it whole. Do not chew or crush.

How do I store serrapeptase?

Serrapeptase is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store this medicine in the bathroom or the freezer. There may be different brands of serrapeptase that may have different storage needs. It is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush serrapeptase down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. It is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before using serrapeptase?

Caution should be exercised in patients with a history of liver or kidney disease, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

There isn’t enough information about the safety of using serrapeptase during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking serrapeptase.

Side effects

What side effects can occur from serrapeptase?

Some side effects can occur when using this drug, such as:

Bleeding disorders

Serrapeptase might interfere with blood clotting, so some researchers worry that it might make bleeding disorders worse. If you have a bleeding disorder, check with your healthcare provider before using this medicine.

Surgery:

Serrapeptase might interfere with blood clotting. There is a concern that it might increase bleeding during and after surgery. Stop using this drug at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with serrapeptase?

Serrapeptase may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects.

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.

For your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any drugs without your doctor’s approval.

Products may interact with this drug, including:

• NSAIDs
• Anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin)
• Antiplatelts/thrombolytics
• Fibrinolytics
• Other blood thinners

Does food or alcohol interact with this drug?

It may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. It is best to take this drug on an empty stomach for optimal absorption and effect. You can take it 1-2 hours before meals or 2-3 hours after meals.

Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with serrapeptase?

Serrapeptase may interact with your health condition. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. It is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using serrapeptase.

What is the dose of serrapeptase for an adult?

For reducing swelling of the inside of the cheek after sinus surgery:

The recommended dose is 5-10 mg of serrapeptase 3 times. It should be taken on an empty stomach or 2 hours after meals.

What is the dose of serrapeptase for a child?

The dosage has not been established in pediatric patients. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using it. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is serrapeptase available?

This medicine is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Dalzen tablet 10 mg of serrapeptase

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of serrapeptase, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.