Serrapeptase: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, and What You Need to Know

Serrapeptase, also known as serratiopeptidase, is a proteolytic enzyme that has gained considerable attention in the health and wellness community for its potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Originally derived from the digestive system of silkworms, this enzyme has been used therapeutically in Japan and Europe for over five decades. As interest in natural health solutions continues to grow in the United States, many people are curious about whether serrapeptase could offer benefits for their specific health concerns.

This comprehensive guide explores the science behind serrapeptase, examining its potential benefits, possible side effects, appropriate dosing recommendations, and important safety considerations to help you make an informed decision about this supplement.

What Is Serrapeptase and How Does It Work?

Serrapeptase is a proteolytic enzyme, which means it breaks down proteins into smaller building blocks called amino acids. This enzyme is naturally produced by bacteria (Serratia E15) found in the intestines of silkworms. In nature, serrapeptase serves a crucial function: it helps the emerging silkworm moth digest and dissolve its cocoon so it can break free.

The therapeutic use of proteolytic enzymes began in Western medicine during the 1950s when researchers observed that enzymes like trypsin and chymotrypsin exhibited anti-inflammatory effects. Japanese scientists isolated serrapeptase from silkworms in the late 1960s and discovered that it possessed potent anti-inflammatory properties. European and Japanese researchers subsequently suggested that serrapeptase was among the most effective proteolytic enzymes for managing inflammation.

In your body, serrapeptase works by breaking down certain proteins involved in inflammation and tissue damage. It’s believed to reduce the concentration of inflammatory cells at affected sites, thin mucus secretions, and potentially break down fibrin—a protein involved in blood clot formation.

Science-Backed Benefits of Serrapeptase

Reduces Inflammation

The primary use of serrapeptase is for reducing inflammation, which is your body’s natural response to injury or infection. While acute inflammation is protective, chronic inflammation can contribute to various health problems.

In dental medicine, serrapeptase has been studied extensively for its anti-inflammatory effects following minor surgical procedures. Research comparing serrapeptase to traditional anti-inflammatory medications has shown promising results. A systematic review analyzing five studies found that serrapeptase was more effective than ibuprofen and corticosteroids in improving lockjaw (trismus) after wisdom tooth extraction. While corticosteroids showed slightly better results for facial swelling immediately after surgery, the differences became negligible within a few days.

Importantly, researchers noted that serrapeptase demonstrated a better safety profile compared to conventional anti-inflammatory medications, suggesting it could serve as an alternative for individuals who experience adverse reactions to standard treatments.

Alleviates Pain

Pain relief is one of the most commonly reported benefits of serrapeptase supplementation. The enzyme appears to work by inhibiting the release of pain-inducing compounds at sites of inflammation.

In a clinical study involving nearly 200 participants with inflammatory conditions of the ear, nose, and throat, those who took serrapeptase experienced significant reductions in pain severity compared to those receiving a placebo. The serrapeptase group also reported decreased mucus production.

Similar results have been observed in dental pain studies. Research on patients recovering from wisdom tooth removal showed that serrapeptase significantly reduced pain intensity compared to placebo. Another study confirmed that serrapeptase reduced both swelling and pain following dental surgery, though it was somewhat less effective than corticosteroid treatment.

While these findings are encouraging, more extensive research is needed to determine the full scope of serrapeptase’s pain-relieving effects and which specific conditions might benefit most from its use.

May Help Prevent Bacterial Infections

Emerging research suggests that serrapeptase may enhance the effectiveness of antibiotics and help prevent certain bacterial infections. This benefit relates to the enzyme’s ability to disrupt biofilms—protective barriers that bacteria create around themselves.

Biofilms allow bacteria to shield themselves from antibiotics, making infections more difficult to treat. Serrapeptase can break down these protective barriers, potentially making bacteria more vulnerable to antibiotic treatment.

Studies have demonstrated that serrapeptase improves the efficacy of antibiotics against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), a common cause of hospital-acquired infections. Laboratory and animal research has shown that combining antibiotics with serrapeptase is more effective at treating S. aureus infections than using antibiotics alone. This combination approach has also shown promise against antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains.

While these findings are preliminary, they suggest that serrapeptase might play a supportive role in treating difficult-to-manage infections. However, you should never use serrapeptase as a substitute for prescribed antibiotic treatment without consulting your healthcare provider.

Potential Cardiovascular Benefits

Some researchers believe serrapeptase may offer cardiovascular benefits, particularly concerning atherosclerosis—a condition characterized by plaque buildup inside arteries. The enzyme’s ability to break down fibrin and damaged tissue has led to speculation that it might help dissolve arterial plaque or prevent dangerous blood clots.

A recent review suggested that serrapeptase’s fibrinolytic (clot-dissolving) properties might be beneficial in treating thrombosis in certain medical conditions. However, it’s crucial to note that much of the information about serrapeptase’s ability to dissolve blood clots comes from anecdotal reports rather than rigorous scientific studies.

More research is necessary to confirm whether serrapeptase truly offers cardiovascular protection and to establish appropriate protocols for its use in this context. You should never use serrapeptase as a substitute for prescribed cardiovascular treatments.

Supports Respiratory Health

Serrapeptase may provide benefits for individuals with chronic respiratory diseases (CRD) by improving mucus clearance and reducing lung inflammation.

Chronic respiratory diseases include conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and pulmonary hypertension. While these conditions are typically incurable, treatments that improve mucus clearance and reduce inflammation can significantly enhance quality of life.

A four-week clinical trial examined the effects of serrapeptase in people with chronic bronchitis, a type of COPD characterized by excessive mucus production, coughing, and breathing difficulties. Participants who received 30 mg of serrapeptase daily produced less mucus than the placebo group and showed improved ability to clear mucus from their lungs.

Additional research has shown symptom improvement in individuals with pulmonary fibrosis who supplemented with serrapeptase. However, larger, more comprehensive studies are needed to confirm these benefits and establish optimal treatment protocols.

Serrapeptase Dosage and Supplement Selection

When taken orally, serrapeptase is vulnerable to degradation by stomach acid. For this reason, effective serrapeptase supplements must be enteric-coated. Enteric coating protects the enzyme from stomach acid, allowing it to pass intact into the intestines where it can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

The typical dosage range used in clinical studies is 10 to 60 mg per day. The enzymatic activity of serrapeptase is measured in units, with 10 mg typically corresponding to 20,000 units of enzyme activity. Some supplements list their potency in units rather than milligrams.

How to Take Serrapeptase

For optimal absorption and effectiveness:

• Take serrapeptase on an empty stomach
• Wait at least 30 minutes before eating, or take it at least two hours after a meal
• Ensure the supplement has an enteric coating
• Follow the dosage recommendations on the product label or those provided by your healthcare provider
• Start with a lower dose and gradually increase if needed

Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting serrapeptase, especially if you have existing health conditions or take other medications or supplements.

Serrapeptase Side Effects and Safety Concerns

While serrapeptase is generally considered safe when used appropriately, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Published research on the adverse effects of serrapeptase is limited, but reported side effects include:

• Skin reactions or rashes
• Muscle and joint discomfort
• Reduced appetite
• Nausea or stomach upset
• Abdominal pain
• Coughing
• Blood clotting disturbances

Important Safety Considerations

Blood Thinning Effects: Serrapeptase may affect blood clotting, which poses risks for certain individuals. You should not take serrapeptase if you are currently using blood-thinning medications or supplements. Combining serrapeptase with anticoagulants could increase your risk of excessive bleeding or bruising.

Supplements and foods that may interact with serrapeptase include:

• Garlic supplements
• Fish oil
• Turmeric or curcumin
• Ginkgo biloba
• Other proteolytic enzyme supplements

Surgery: Due to its effects on blood clotting, you should discontinue serrapeptase at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery. Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist if you have been taking this supplement.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is insufficient research on the safety of serrapeptase during pregnancy and lactation. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, avoid serrapeptase unless specifically recommended by your healthcare provider.

Allergic Reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions to serrapeptase can occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe rash, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat.

What the Research Says: Current Limitations

Despite the promising preliminary findings, it’s important to understand that research on serrapeptase remains limited. Most studies have been small-scale, and there is insufficient data on the long-term safety and tolerability of this enzyme supplement.

Key research limitations include:

• Small sample sizes in most clinical trials
• Limited long-term safety data
• Lack of standardization in supplement formulations and dosing
• Insufficient research on interactions with medications and other supplements
• Need for larger, well-designed clinical trials to confirm benefits

While the existing research is encouraging, more extensive clinical studies are needed to establish serrapeptase as an evidence-based therapeutic option for specific health conditions.

Who Should Consider Serrapeptase?

Serrapeptase may be worth considering if you:

• Experience chronic inflammation that hasn’t responded well to conventional approaches
• Have chronic respiratory conditions with excessive mucus production
• Are recovering from dental procedures or minor surgery
• Experience chronic pain related to inflammation
• Are looking for alternatives to traditional anti-inflammatory medications due to side effects or contraindications

However, serrapeptase is not appropriate for everyone. You should avoid serrapeptase or use it only under close medical supervision if you:

• Take blood-thinning medications or have bleeding disorders
• Are scheduled for surgery within the next two weeks
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have a known allergy to serrapeptase or related compounds
• Have a history of bleeding problems

Choosing a Quality Serrapeptase Supplement

If you decide to try serrapeptase, selecting a high-quality supplement is essential. Look for products that meet the following criteria:

• Enteric coating: This is non-negotiable for effective serrapeptase supplementation
• Clear potency labeling: The label should clearly state the amount of serrapeptase in milligrams or units
• Third-party testing: Choose brands that undergo independent quality testing
• Manufacturing standards: Look for supplements manufactured in facilities that follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
• Minimal additives: Avoid products with unnecessary fillers, artificial colors, or preservatives
• Reputable manufacturer: Purchase from established companies with a track record of quality

The Bottom Line on Serrapeptase

Serrapeptase is a proteolytic enzyme with a decades-long history of use in Japan and Europe for managing pain and inflammation. Preliminary research suggests it may offer several potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, supporting respiratory health, and potentially enhancing the effectiveness of antibiotics against certain bacterial infections.

However, the current body of research has significant limitations. Most studies have been small-scale, and there is insufficient data on long-term safety and optimal dosing protocols. Additionally, serrapeptase can interact with blood-thinning medications and supplements, posing risks for certain individuals.

If you’re considering serrapeptase supplementation, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider first. They can help you determine whether serrapeptase is appropriate for your specific situation, recommend an appropriate dosage, and monitor for potential interactions or side effects. Never use serrapeptase as a replacement for prescribed medical treatments without professional guidance.

While serrapeptase shows promise as a natural anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving supplement, more rigorous, large-scale research is needed to fully establish its efficacy and safety profile. As the scientific understanding of this enzyme continues to evolve, we may gain clearer insights into its optimal uses and potential role in integrative health approaches.

Sources:

• PubMed – U.S. National Library of Medicine
• PubMed Central – National Institutes of Health
• ScienceDirect – Peer-reviewed Literature Database
• Mayo Clinic – Patient Care and Health Information
• MedlinePlus – U.S. National Library of Medicine