Serrapeptase is a chemical taken from the silkworm. It is a commonly used drug (Takeda Chemical Industries) in Japan and Europe. In the U.S., serrapeptase is classified as a dietary supplement.
Serrapeptase is used for conditions such as back pain, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, and for conditions generally associated with pain and swelling (inflammation), but there is no good evidence to support these uses..
Is It Effective?
There is interest in using serrapeptase for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Is it Safe?
Serrapeptase helps the body break down protein. This might help decrease inflammation and mucous.
When taken by mouth: Serrapeptase is POSSIBLY SAFE for adults when taken by mouth for up to 4 weeks. There isn't enough reliable information to know if serrapeptase is safe when taken for longer than 4 weeks.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if serrapeptase is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
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 serrapeptase.
Surgery: Serrapeptase might interfere with blood clotting. There is a concern that it might increase bleeding during and after surgery. Stop using serrapeptase at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs)
Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.
Serrapeptase might decrease blood clotting. Therefore, taking serrapeptase along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
Some medications that slow blood clotting include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn, others), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, warfarin (Coumadin), and others.
Herbs and supplements that might slow blood clotting: Serrapeptase might interfere with blood clotting. Taking it along with other supplements that might also slow blood clotting could increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. Some of these supplements are angelica, clove, danshen, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, fish oil, turmeric, vitamin E, willow, and others.
There are no known interactions with foods.
The following doses have been studied in scientific research:
BY MOUTH:
- For reducing swelling of the inside of the cheek after sinus surgery: 10 mg of serrapeptase 3 times on the day before surgery, once in the evening after surgery, and then 3 times daily for 5 days following surgery.
Butterfly Enzyme, Enzyme de Ver de Soie, Extrait de Ver de Soie, SER, Serratia peptidase, Serrapeptidase, Serratiopeptidase, Silk Worm Enzyme, Silkworm Extract.
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