Enzyme
Serrapeptase
Also known as: Serratiopeptidase, Serratia peptidase, Serratopeptidase
Proteolytic enzyme originally isolated from silkworm gut bacteria. Used as an anti-inflammatory and mucolytic; most evidence is in ENT and post-surgical settings.
Primary uses
- Sinus and respiratory congestion
- Post-surgical swelling
- Mucus clearance
- Supportive anti-inflammatory use
How it works
- Hydrolyzes bradykinin and other inflammatory mediators
- Breaks down non-vital (dead or fibrotic) tissue and fibrin deposits
- Reduces viscosity of bronchial and nasal secretions
Dosage
- Typical range
- 10,000-60,000 SPU per day, divided into 1-3 doses
- Timing
- On an empty stomach — at least 30 minutes before food or 2 hours after
- With food
- Strictly without food — food reduces absorption of systemic enzymes
- Duration
- Short courses (2-4 weeks) most studied; no clear safety signal at longer durations but evidence is limited
- Special populations
- Avoid in pregnancy, active bleeding, or surgery within 2 weeks
Forms
- Enteric-coated capsule
- Enteric-coated tablet
Safety
Common side effects
- Mild GI upset
- Rare skin reactions
Contraindications
- Active bleeding or recent surgery
- Concurrent anticoagulant therapy without clinician oversight
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
Evidence notes
Moderate evidence in ENT (sinusitis, post-tonsillectomy edema) and respiratory clearance. Broader anti-inflammatory claims rest on small older studies; recent systematic reviews are mixed. Must be enteric-coated to survive stomach acid.
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
Related in Enzyme
Check a full stack
Formulate's free interaction checker lets you paste in any combination of supplements and medications at once — every pairing flags severity, timing, and cited evidence.
Open the checkerMedical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.