Serrapeptase supplement
benefit and side effects, dosage, safety, review
Medical benefits, 20,000 units or 40,000 units, what is the right dose?
January 15 2019 by Ray Sahelian, M.D.
Serrapeptase or Serratiopeptidase, an enzyme isolated from a microorganism in silkworm, is widely used in clinical practice in Japan. Until more is known about the long term benefit and side effects, we recommend limiting your daily dose 20,000 units, and certainly to no more than 40,000 units. Take frequent breaks until more research is available regarding long term effects.
Buy Serrapeptase 20,000 iu on sale
Q. What is the conversion of 10 mg
of serrapeptase to international units?
A. As far as I can tell, 10 mg is equivalent to about 20,000 iu...
but I am not 100 percent certain yet, it seems there is no major consensus yet
on this dosing equivalency.
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Comment and review
Serrapeptase has some clinical potential,
however much more research is needed before we determine what clinical role this
enzyme has in medicine. In the meantime, only use it under medical
supervision until more studies determine the full spectrum of side
effects and benefits.
Medical conditions where serrapeptase has been studied
Chronic airway lung disease
Chronic ear, nose or throat disorders
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Jaw pain and swelling after dental surgery
Certain cases of edema after an operation
or injury.
Review article - Int J Surgery. 2013.
Serratiopeptidase: a systematic review of the existing evidence.
Serratiopeptidase is being used in many clinical specialties for its
anti-inflammatory, anti-edemic and analgesic effects. It is even being promoted
as a health supplement to prevent cardiovascular morbidity. The existing
scientific evidence is insufficient to support its use as an analgesic and
health supplement. The data on long-term safety of this enzyme is lacking.
Evidence based recommendations on the analgesic, anti-atherosclerotic efficacy,
safety and tolerability are needed.
Serrapeptase side
effects - caution, safety, risk, danger, reports from users, adverse effects
A review of the medical literature indicates rare cases of pneumonitis or
allergic skin reactions. As with any supplement or
medicine, rare cases of other side effects are possible. Over the past severeal years
we have had individuals who have mentioned side effects, some were
minor aches and pains after taking it daily for a few weeks and some more
serious reactions. We suggest
limiting to one tablet or capsule a day and taking at least 2 or three days off each week until we
find out whether these cases were just coincidence or true side
effects from serrapeptase. Have approval by your doctor before use.
Q. I just received my order and was
wondering if this natural enzyme is something you take every day, or for a certain
amount of time and take some time off and then take again. I am just concerned
about toxic effects from serrapeptase taking everyday?
A. Since little human research is available in the West, it is
preferable to take breaks from use until we learn more about the full clinical
effects. At
this time we don't have full knowledge of potential serrapeptase allergic
reactions, side effects, cautions or dangers, and how it interacts with
medicines and other supplements. We also don't have a full understanding of
which medical conditions it is most effective for.
Testimonials regarding adverse reactions
I ordered a bottle of serrapeptase
enzyme for the purpose of removing plaque from my coronary arteries. After taking one serrapeptase tablet on an
empty stomach, eight hours later I experienced stomach upset and nausea which
lasted for nearly 24 hours. Since this nausea could have been caused by
something else, I waited a couple days before taking another pill.
The results were the same. My nausea was so bad that I was unable to eat my
usual lunch.
A. This is the first
report we have had of nausea and gastrointestinal symptoms associated with
this enzyme.
Cough
After taking serrapeptase for approx. one week I developed a very disturbing deep and
unusual cough while attending my college alumni homecoming weekend. The cough
seriously irritated my lungs and bronchial tubes, and was uncomfortable enough
that I left the campus a day earlier than planned. I had no other related
symptoms of any kind, and I am not a smoker. I started
investigating online to see and found research that said that an unusual form of pneumonia could develop in
elderly
users. I am in my middle 70's.
Since after a week to 10 days after stopping the pills, the cough slowly
disappeared without any discernible after-effects.
My wife has rheumatiod arthritis. She has
recently started taking 2 80,000 iu serrapeptase pills. She has severe side
affects to methotrexate and salazopyrin is now ineffective, though she still
takes a low dose. She has developed a mild, catchy dry cough over the last week
since she started the serrapeptase, though symptoms of the disease seems to be
starting to ease off a little. Is this a cause for concern, or could the cough
be put down to a temporary bug? She has been taking this supplement for about a
week.
A. We have had other users report cough symptoms.
Diarrhea and vomiting
I have lymphedema; my right arm is larger than my left. Serrapeptase is listed
as a remedy on some web sites. The first time I got dry heaves and terrible
diarrhea. Not realizing it was the med, I took it again and got dry heaves and
diarrhea again. Still, nobody could believe such a side effect. Yes, I stupidly
took it a third time. Now, there is no doubt that I cannot take serrapeptase.
Within half an hour I was vomiting.
I tried serrapeptase last night at a 40,000U dose. Nausea and vomiting this morning (nothing in stomach). Last time I took this was over a month ago, and I did not have the nausea and vomiting initially, but I did develop it after about 7 days of use. Recently diagnosed with IPF. Father died from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Pain and aches
One MD prescribed a low dose of prednisone
(15 mg) for a several weeks for a diagnosis of polymyalgia rheumatica. My
shoulders, and hips ached and especially after doing some light exercise.
Because of the side effects of prednisone I read about (suppressed immune
system), I contacted an alternative health care person who prescribed 6 caps
containing 120,000 units of enzymatic activity. The third night I had dull
aching pain in my hips, lower back and knees along with extreme fatigue. I quit
taking it on the fourth day and am feeling a little better. It appears from your
recommended dose of 20,000 that I was taking too high a dose and my body
couldn't tolerate it.
I started taking 40,000 units serrapeptase twice daily to clean my arteries. After 3 weeks I noticed that my veins looked abnormal when I took a pill, but I thought it was just something temporary. One morning I woke up with a slight painful feeling in my right ankle. When I stood up I had a strange sensation in both of my legs, I could not really stand or walk, and my veins looked extremely large when I was standing. I stopped taking serrapeptase that morning, and since my condition did not improve for two days, I went to a vein doctor who examined me and said that I have varicose vein. I also see spider veins in the area under my ankles.
I have a really weak immune system and took 160,000 iu of serrapetase in one day. The idiot that sold the stuff to me said to follow the instructions on the bottle, 80,000 3 times a day! I took the first pill and nothing happened.. but when I took the second I felt like I was going to die, my chest tightened, I couldn't breath and felt so weak, I could hardly walk.
Q. I have had a chat with my doctor. He said the risk with
using this enzyme is that when it breaks up arterial plaque into smaller bits,
then the loosen plague can make it's way into smaller arteries and cause
blockages. He also mentioned that if these smaller pieces end up moving into
your brain then it can potentially cause a stroke. Please indicate if you are of
a different opinion? I am really keen on using this product as a preventative
measure, but obviously not at the risk of causing problems elsewhere.
A. I am not aware of any studies that have shown these medical
problems to occur and I would be interested in reviewing such studies if your
doctor can provide the references.
Q. I was taking serrapeptase on an empty stomach successfully
for 3 months. It gave me surprising relief from inflammation-related pain
(overuse injuries). Upon switching brands, it began to cause nausea and
vomiting, up to 8 hours after taking it. I took a break for a couple of weeks,
switched back to my previous brand, but after a week of taking it with no side
effects, the vomiting began again. Apparently I have developed a sensitivity for
this product? I cannot find any reference to this on the internet and am
wondering if you have any information? I had been recommending serrapeptase to
my friends, but now I am wondering if it is perhaps a dangerous product.
A. Perhaps the dosage needed is less than you require, and perhaps
it is a good idea to not take it every day or to take 2 days off a week. Another
option is to try it with a little bit of food in the stomach.
Q. As a few others have noted, I also stopped taking serrapeptase due to joint and muscle pain that made it painful to walk, move my arms....don't know how long it will take to completely eliminate it from my system.
Q. Have heard good things about the use of serrapeptase for
reducing inflammatory conditions in the body for various chronic conditions, for
everything from arthritis to cancer. Should one stop using such a supplement
before surgical or dental procedures and if so how far in advance. Since this is
a proteolytic enzyme should one be careful about taking it with other digestive
enzymes or blood thinners?
A. It would be prudent to stop its use a week or so before
surgery. Its interactions with other enzymes and blood thinners are not fully
understood yet.
Q. I am a medical resident and have read your post about serrapeptase and there were several questions and comments about dosages. It is clear that many are taking dosages that are way too high and as such are causing some side effects, mainly muscle and joint pain. Let me remind you that one of or maybe the western medical pioneer of that enzyme Dr. Hans Nieper, used usually a dosage of 3 x 5mg per day. Beats the hell out of me how we in north America wound up with tablets of 10 to 15 times that dosage.
Q. Is it safe to take SerraGold if your on Coumadin warfarin?
SerraGold contains high-potency Serrapeptase combined with a blend of
proteolytic enzymes.
A. I would not suggest combining SerraGold with Coumadin since the
risk of bleeding has not been well studied with the combination.
Q. I just finished reading your readers' comments about their personal experiences with taking serrapeptase and want to add mine. Thank you for posting your collection of reader comments (and your cautionary statement); without them I would not been made aware of the enzyme's possible side effects, such as joint pain. This different viewpoint has caused me to consider modifying my dosage schedule with this enzyme. I have been taking 240, 000 CPU (Arthur Andrew Medical) every 6 hours since my bout of cellulitis (over 2 months ago). I took it with a prescribed antibiotic (not at the same time, but on a staggered schedule, and always on empty stomach) to facilitate the action of the antibiotic. The thinking behind this method was that the enzyme would break down the infecting bacteria's outer membrane, or "biofilm," allowing the antibiotic to more easily block the bacteria's action. Because of my diagnosed paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, I continued to take the enzyme at the same rate to protect myself from the ever present threat of cardiovascular events due to this condition, such as stroke. I am also taking another enzyme, nattokinase, on a different schedule (every 12 hours) for this cardiovascular protection - very important to me, since I have declined to take prescribed blood thinners with their many known side effects.Regarding your readers' comments, I take them with a grain of salt, because, though I value the compelling circumstantial evidence they offer, their statements cannot be considered as strong as those from scientific studies; users' feedback usually do not take into consideration all of the complicating factors (general health, dietary habits, lifestyle, use of probiotics and prebiotics, concurrent morbidities, medical histories, etc) that could be acting behind reported symptoms. As far as I know no studies (RCTs) have shown serrapeptase to have adverse effects. There is an ongoing study of nattokinase, in its last phases, but I have not yet noticed any published conclusions. Regarding the "joint pain" mentioned above, for the last month I have persistent should and arm pain that I had thought was precipitated by over-vigorous exercise using my arms. I had been practicing Dr. Joseph Mercola's NO Dump exercise that he has published as an online video, in which he personally demonstrates. I suspect that the NO Dump exercise aggravated my shoulder joints leading to inflammation and soreness. The symptoms may have been magnified by my existing cervical spondylosis that I speculate involve some kind of little known, or possibly unknown, interaction between cervical nerve roots and their corresponding dermatomes in my shoulder. However, your reader reports of joint pain associated with taking serrapeptase has prompted me to try reducing my serrapeptase dosage rate to see if I get a reduction of my shoulder pain.
Vomiting side effect, acid reflux?
I read with interest your page about serrapeptase benefits and side effects. I
have Lyme Disease and some co-infections and my naturopathic doctor put me on a
high dose of this to break up bacterial biofilms --120,000spu, twice a day (I
take Doctor's Best). He wanted me to take 500 mg (Nutrimedix, I believe). WebMD
uses mg also for measure. I think the serrapeptase may have improved my chronic
cough of 12 years, but I started noticing lightheadedness and increasing acid
reflux until I woke up in the middle of the night, with vomiting that felt like
acid and mucous coming up. I checked several of my supplements and managed to
find your site, which I found very helpful, since I could find no official side
effects. I went off the product and the acid reflux is improving. I may use a
lower dose. Thought I'd add to your information.
Serrapeptase dosage,
amount to take
This natural enzyme is a relatively new supplements compared to
vitamins A, B, C etc. The long term benefits and side effects are not yet fully
understood. I prefer being cautious and erring on the side of taking less rather
than more until several more years pass and I have a clearer understanding of
the benefits and risks.
Benefits of Serrapetase
Alzheimer's disease
Hum Exp Toxicol. 2013. Serrapeptase and nattokinase intervention for
relieving Alzheimer's disease pathophysiology in rat model. These enzymes may
have a therapeutic application in the treatment of AD.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
A preliminary trial of serratiopeptidase in patients with carpal tunnel
syndrome.
J Assoc Physicians India. 1999.
Twenty patients with carpal tunnel
syndrome were
evaluated clinically. After baseline electrophysiological studies, these
patients were given serrapeptase 10 mg twice daily with initial short
course of nimesulide. Clinical and electrophysiological reassessment was done
after 6 weeks. Sixty five percent of serrapeptase cases showed significant
clinical improvement which was supported by improvement in electrophysiological
parameters. Recurrence was reported in four cases. Serrapeptase therapy may
proved to be a useful alternative mode of conservative treatment. Larger study
may be further helpful to establish the role of serrapeptase in carpal tunnel
syndrome. Serratiopeptidase therapy showed no significant side effects.
Chronic lung
disease and mucus
Effect of the proteolytic enzyme serrapeptase in patients with chronic airway
disease.
Respirology. 2003.
We investigated the effect of 30 mg/day on sputum
properties and symptoms in patients with chronic airway diseases. After 4 weeks of treatment, sputum
weight in the morning, percentage solid component, viscosity and elasticity of
sputum, sputum neutrophil count, frequency of coughing and frequency of
expectoration significantly decreased.
Jaw pain and
swelling after dental surgery
Effect of the proteolytic enzyme serrapeptase on swelling, pain and trismus
after surgical extraction of mandibular third molars.
Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2008.
Twenty-four healthy
individuals with symmetrically impacted mandibular third molars underwent
surgical removal in a prospective, intra-individual, randomized, double-blind,
cross-over study. Teeth were removed in 2 sessions by the same surgeon. At each
session, one third molar was removed under local anaesthesia via a buccal
osteotomy. All patients received a combination of either serrapeptase 5mg or
placebo tablets and 1000 mg paracetamol tablets at either the 1st or 2nd
operation in accordance with the randomization plan. There was a significant
reduction in the extent of cheek swelling and pain intensity in the serrapeptase
group at the 2nd, 3rd and 7th postoperative days, but no significant difference
in mean maximal interincisal distance was found between the 2 groups.
J Clin Exp Dent. 2015. Comparison of clinical efficacy of methylprednisolone and serratiopeptidase for reduction of postoperative sequelae after lower third molar surgery. Surgical removal of mandibular third molars results in some degree of post-operative pain, swelling and trismus. These can be controlled by proper administration of local anesthesia, careful bone removal, minimal trauma to adjacent soft tissues and administration of methylprednisolone and serratiopeptidase drugs. The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of methylprednisolone and serrapeptase in controlling post-operative pain, swelling and trismus after surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molars. We conclude that methylprednisolone affords better pain relief while serrapeptase exerts better anti-inflammatory and anti-swelling effects in the post-operative period. Synergistic combinations of these two drugs would however prove to be more effective when extensive post-operative sequelae are expected. Key words: Methylprednisolone, serratiopeptidase, pain, swelling, trismus, third molar.
Serrapeptase or serratiopeptidase
research study
Intestinal absorption of serrapeptase in rats.
Biotechnol Appl Biochem. 1994.
Serrapeptase in the plasma was determined after its oral administration (100
mg/kg) to rats. The peak concentration was observed between 30 min and 2 h after
administration. These results indicate that orally administered serrapeptase was absorbed from the intestinal tract and transferred into the circulation
in an enzymically active form.
Evaluation of Serratia peptidase in acute or chronic inflammation of
otorhinolaryngology pathology: a multicentre, double-blind, randomized trial
versus placebo.
University of Naples, Italy.
J Int Med Res. 1990.
The efficacy and tolerability of serrapeptase were evaluated in 193 subjects suffering
from acute or chronic ear, nose or throat disorders. After 4 days' treatment significant symptom regression was observed in treated patients. There was also a significant reduction in
symptoms after 8 days for patients in both treatment groups but the response
was more marked in those patients receiving the active drug. It is concluded that serrapeptase has anti-inflammatory, anti-edemic and fibrinolytic activity and acts
rapidly on localized inflammation.
A case of pneumonitis due to serrapeptase
Nihon Kyobu Shikkan Gakkai Zasshi. 1989.
A 69-year-old man was
treated with serrapeptase for 16 days because of common cold, then fever,
nonproductive cough and dyspnea developed and chest X-ray revealed diffuse fine
granular shadows in bilateral lung fields. Once the administration was halted,
symptoms, chest X-ray abnormalities and laboratory data improved markedly. Microscopic examination of transbronchial
lung biopsy showed interstitial pneumonia. Both leukocyte migration inhibition
test and sensitized hemagglutination test were positive for serrapeptase.
The treatment of breast engorgement with Serrapeptase (Danzen): a randomised
double-blind controlled trial.
Singapore Med J. 1989.
We evaluated an anti-inflammatory enzyme drug Danzen ( Takeda
Chemical Industries ) on 70 patients complaining of breast engorgement. Serrapeptase was noted to be superior to placebo for improvement of
breast pain, breast swelling and induration and while 85% of the patients
receiving serrapeptase had "Moderate to Marked" improvement, only 60% of the
patients receiving placebo had a similar degree of improvement.
A case of serratiopeptidase-induced subepidermal bullous
dermatosis.
Br J Dermatol. 1999.
Reduction of postoperative swelling. Objective measurement of swelling of the
upper ankle joint in treatment with serrapeptase -- a prospective study
Fortschr Med. 1989.
Using a quantitative standardized procedure, the swelling of the ankle produced
by supination trauma was measured. In the 66 patients with fresh rupture of the
lateral ligament treated surgically at our Department between December 1986 and
April 1987, a prospective study of the effect of serrapeptase (Aniflazym) on
post-operative swelling and pain was carried out in 3 randomized groups of
patients. In the group receiving serrapeptase, the swelling had decreased by 50%
on the third post-operative day, while in the other two control groups
(elevation of the leg, bed rest, with and without the application of ice) no
reduction in swelling had occurred at that time. Decreasing pain correlated for
the most part with the reduction in swelling. Thus, the patients receiving the
test substance more rapidly became pain-free than did the control groups. On the
basis of these results, serrapeptase would appear to be an effective preparation
for the post-operative reduction of swelling, in comparison with the classical
conservative measures, for example, the application of ice.
The effect of an orally administered proteolytic enzyme on
the elasticity and viscosity of nasal mucus.
Arch Otorhinolaryngology. 1988.
We have evaluated the effect of serrapeptase on
the elasticity and viscosity of the nasal mucus in adult patients with chronic
sinusitis. It was administered in a dose of 30 mg/day orally for 4
weeks. Nasal mucus was collected from the nasal cavities of each patient before
and 4 weeks after the start of the medication. Serrapeptase reduced the viscosity but not the
elasticity of the nasal mucus.
Testimonial by email
I have started taking this enzyme after having it recommended by a chiropractor
friend. I have had type 1 diabetes for over 22 years, have macular edema and
also a heart rhythm abnormality for which I have been treated with a
synchronising pace-maker. I thought you might be interested I my experience. I
initially started using 80,000 unit tablets one a day. I upped this to 3 times a
day and found this too much as it made me feel weak and breathless. I have now
reduced this back to one a day but I think I may get weaker tabs and split the
dose. Anyway, what I thought might be of interest is that within a few days of
starting the treatment, I am finding my sight improving. Mostly this relates to
improvement in colour perception but my floaters also seem less pronounced and
some of the fading is reducing. I still have macular distortion but hopefully
this might improve too with time.
I never thought that pain in my joints was being caused by
taking sarrapeptase. But I did want to put my two cents in on this subject. I
did not have joint pain before taking Sarrapeptase. And I don't have any joint
pain now. I had taken them before and stopped because it was causing me to
cough. Both that time and this time it appears to thin the mucus so much it
causes it to run down my throat into my lungs hence the cough. But I started
taking it again for repeated boils in my left armpit. It went to work
immediately. I felt tingling in the boil. Over night it went from a quarter size
to a nickel size two days later a pea size. Then gone completely. I did have
pain in my finger joints one knee and one hip. Yes it was painful to walk and
use my hands. But I didn't think it was caused by the serrapeptase. Anyway I
kept taking 40,000 two times a day and the pain eventually went away. I believe
there was an issue with those joints and the Sarrapeptase was dealing with it. I
also believe that when the serrapeptase has finished it work in your body
removing everything unnatural in the body it collects in the mucus for disposal
and unfortunately cause lung issues. So I'm done with my body maintenance and
the serrapeptase goes back up on the self until I need it again. The first time
I took Sarrapeptase I was taking 120,000 and it also along with the cough caused
skin discoloration on my for arms which went away with time. I do believe that
the lower dosage the better. All in all this is an amazing enzyme. That I will
use when needed for ever.
Emails and questions
Q. Can serrapeptase cause adverse reactions when taking meds for high blood
pressure such as Norvasc and Avapro? Because my mom takes those and they really
afflict her badly. And what is the ideal serrapeptase dosage for me to take
for chronic sinusitis. I've had that all my life. I need relief and
not drugs.
A. Serrapeptase has been used in Japan but very little in the US so we really don't
know much about the ideal dosage or what conditions it is likely to benefit, or
how it interacts with medicines.
Q. My father has found benefit using serrapeptase for his
leg claudication. He can now walk twice as far, but still not much, about 400m,
but he is 81! I wonder if serrapeptase breaking down plaque. Does it reduce blood pressure?
A. I am still not sure how much of an influence it has on blood pressure.
Q. I began taking Serrapeptase, 30,000 IU from a
company other than Physician Formulas, one a day, approximately 2.5 months ago. I am
taking no prescription drugs, but am taking various vitamin and herbal
supplements. There were no apparent side effects but nor did I notice any
noticeable change in my general wellbeing. My brief history: I have been diagnosed
with GERD which had its onset 3 years ago after a 2-day bout with
food poisoning. Because I did not want to remain on Nexium 40 mg/day for the
rest of my life, I changed my diet and began researching vitamin and herbal
supplements to replace the foods I could no longer tolerate. The only other
conditions I had/have were:
Very mild elevated B/P - corrected
Very mild hypothyroid - supplemented with Thyroforce
Very mild elevated cholesteol - treated with increase in exercise and barely any
fat in diet.
Mild osteoarthritis which, like the GERD, flares up and wanes with changes in
the weather. Flares not only result in more GERD symptoms but, when severe, feel
like flu - achy all over.
I added the serrapeptase supplement because local promotions said
it would improve digestion, clean plaque out of arteries, etc. Although I did
not make any association at first, for the past month or so I began to have
increasing pain in leg muscles and knee / ankle joints. Muscles became really
tight and this progressed to the point where I could hardly walk and stairs were
almost impossible. Spider veins worsened in number. I had physiotherapy which
did not afford much improvement and the only thing that helped was a hot shower
and massage with A535 liniment. I could not figure out what was going on until I
sat down and made notes about chronology. What was startling was that symptoms
began to improve dramatically during the past three days, which coincided with
the fact that I had run out of serrapeptase and had not been able to go to my
usual natural nutrition store for a new supply. Working back the chronology,
there it was - the problem had commenced shortly after starting the serrapeptase.
I have looked at the data available online and there seems to be no reference to
similar side effects....so it's over to you. Is this possible? Obviously, there
are other things I could mention, but I don't want to make this any longer than
it is already. If you could throw any light on this situation, it would be much
appreciated.
A. Thank you for your email, it is quite interesting. This is the
first report we have had regarding a possible link
to these kinds of symptoms. It is difficult to say whether they are related or
coincidence, but it is certainly should no be discounted. Serrapeptase has not
been used in this country for prolonged periods and hence we do not know the
short term and longer term serrapeptase side effects as well as we do for other
vitamins and herbs. As a rule, we often recommend taking breaks from
supplements, and this is one of the reasons we do so. Perhaps the dosage of the
serrapeptase was too high for you, the serrapeptase that Physician Formulas
sells is 20,000 units. Or perhaps it interacted negatively with the other herbs
or supplements you are taking, or perhaps this particular serrapeptase product
was contaminated with a toxin. You may wish to contact the manufacturer
directly. Please keep us updated.
Follow Up Serrapeptase side effect ?
Q. it has been many weeks since we discussed my
experience with side effects possibly due to my use of serrapeptase,
discontinued at the time I first wrote to you. Eight days ago, I restarted the
product taking a single, 30,000 IU capsule of serrapeptase. This time, because I
am prone to very early waking, I used that to good effect by taking the capsule
on waking and then nothing else for at least an hour. I did that following
receipt of the results of my annual check-up - all clear as a bell - BP, ECG,
Thyroid, cholesterol, BUN, glucose all within normal limits, although BP is
higher at age 71 than it was when I was in my fifties. The three 'conditions'
that remain symptomatic are the intermittent episodes of right-sided cramping
pain which present like gallstones - not confirmed on ultrasound and blood
tests. The other two are GERD - which I now keep under control with diet, Tums
and the occasional Pariet - and osteoarthritis, which is painful or not largely
in response to the weather and which is deforming some finger-joints and causing
pain and 'catching' in the left knee. For the first few days, I had no adverse
side-effects at all. Then, with gradually-increasing intensity, I began to
experience increased swelling and discomfort in most joints - hands, knees and
feet. Walking became extremely uncomfortable, just as it did previously. In
short, the condition I most hoped to improve appears to be worsened by taking
the product. I have not taken serrapeptase this morning and, unfortunately, it
looks as though I'm out of luck in the future. That's really too bad, as it
sounded so promising.
Q. I tried serrapeptase swallowed as a pill and did not
notice much effect on me. Then I tried it under the tongue, and so far I have
very good results. I have noticed a sharp decline in my post-op inflammation. It
is impossible to tell if this is a direct result of the neutraceutical or the result of
being almost six weeks recovered from back surgery. Please note that using this
product of yours under the tongue is like chewing sandpaper. If it
proves to be beneficial you may want to
reformulate it in such a way to be gentler to tender tissue.
A. This is interesting. We
have no idea if it works better under the tongue or how safe it is to take
it this way.
Q. I saw on your web site that there is at least one other
person who has had a negative experience with this enzyme. I too was
disappointed and shocked as it caused me extreme muscle and joint pain after two
weeks. And it sounded like a product that could have really helped me. I took 2
caps serrapeptase (40,000 units each) on an empty stomach one hour before
breakfast. I did this for about three weeks. After I stopped the serrapeptase I
did notice some improvement, but it has been a week since then, and I'm still in
a lot of pain, joints and muscles.
A. We find this strange since this potential serrapeptase side effect has not been mentioned in the medical literature, yet
you are the second person who has reported it to us in the past 3 years. We will
keep monitoring this potential serrapeptase side effect. Perhaps the dosage was
too high.
Q. I was reading your website in search of anyone with
side effects from taking serrapeptase. I just turned 50 and was recently
diagnosed with osteoarthritis in my lumbar spine. Otherwise I am perfectly
healthy. After taking 60,000IU twice daily for a week, I noticed some
intermittent swelling in my hands and a "fullness" in my head. I decided to get
my blood pressure checked and it was about 150/90 when it has always been about
115/70. This continued for another few days when my doctor suggested stopping
the serrapeptase for 2 weeks. I did this and the swelling left after a couple of
days and my blood pressure returned to normal. Three days ago I resumed the
serrapeptase at 1/2 the dosage (60,000IU/day) and the swelling and elevated
blood pressure (146/92) have returned. Unfortunately, my back improved
significantly both times I was on the serrapeptase. Is it possible that the
swelling and blood pressure are a side effect of some positive effect the
serrapeptase is having and would go away eventually?
A. This is the first we have heard of serrapeptase
influencing blood pressure, but it may be possible since the full side effect
profile of serrapeptase is not yet known. However, it does appear that the side
effects could be dosage related, so we suggest using only 20,000 units a day and
taking 2 or 3 days off each week, or using the serrapeptase every other day.
Q. I thought I'd let you know my experiences with serrapeptase (Serralone 400mg per capsule). I started using it in the hope that it would help reduce the appearance of my varicose veins (I am only 32). As it is also an anti-inflammatory I thought it may also help with my adult acne as my infections are prone to being very swollen and red. Well, it seems to have certainly helped with the acne swelling, my spots are not as inflamed and angry looking but I have developed an awful lot of spider/thread veins that I never had before and I didn't notice and difference to my varicose veins. I have stopped taking it now as I am worried about the thread vein situation worsening.
Q. I have looked through the previous newsletter articles
but can find nothing on serrepeptase. Are you able to advise serrapeptase dosage
and length of time that you consider safe to take the supplement (I have been
taking it for chronic sinus infection as well as osteoarthritis and ankylosing
spondilytis) and what sort of breaks you consider best.
A. The reason we do not have specific dosages and length of use is
because there are hardly any human studies that can give us these answers.
Hence, until we know more, we feel it is best to take frequent breaks and
discuss with your doctor on further details. Your doctor may wish to read this
page on serrapeptase.
Q. I refer to a category of systemic enzymes which are
fibrolytic — fibrolytic enzymes break down fibrin and reduce or prevent
scarring. Examples of these are serrapeptase and nattokinase. So, more
precisely, could a fibrolytic enzyme like serrapeptase possibly reduce the
fibrosis in an inflammation damaged esophagus (as in eosinophilic esophagitis)
or an inflammation-damaged airway, as seen in asthma? Both undergo eosinophilic
inflammation and with time, remodeling which includes fibrosis.
A. We really do not know, there is so little research done with
serrapeptase, hopefully we will know more in the next few years.
Q. Are there any studies saying whether or not
serrapeptase would be helpful in costochondritis? Also, why would spider veins
be a symptom of serrapeptase use?
A. I am not sure why spider veins are related to the use of serrapeptase.
I have not seen research regarding serrapeptase and
costochondritis.
Q. I have read a lot about serrapeptase from your website
and I am wondering how it will help with scar tissues formed after myomectomy
surgery of six years ago. I read in your website that only little research
has been done on serrapeptase and edema which I interpret to mean scar tissues;
is this correct.
A. Edema is fluid accumulation in tissues, it is not a scar. We
don't have any research on serrapeptase and post myomectomy scar formation.
Hello, and greetings from Paris. I just came across
your great website and was particularly interested by the reports about serrapeptase side-effects. I am considering to start taking Neprinol or Vitalzym
for my fibroid problem. While reading the ingredient list of both supplements I
noticed that they don't give the exact amount of serrapeptase included in their
formula. All they say is that one tablet contains 500mg or 15000 units of their
mix of enzymes. How is one to know the amount of serrapeptase included in that
blend? I am worried that if I adhere to their recommended dosage my intake of
serrapeptase might be too high. On the other hand, I am really interested in
reducing the size of my fibroid. Do you think it would be an option to take your
recommended dose of 20000 units/day of serrapeptase alone without the other
enzymes? I can get serrapeptase here in France without a prescription.
It is best to ask the manufacturers of Neprinol or Vitalzym
regarding the dosage of the serrapeptase in their products. As to serrapeptase
and fibroids, we have not seen such research yet, and you may consider reading
about fibroids on this website.
How is serrapeptase manufactured? Do they kill
silkworms to do it? I have several friends who are interested in a
product but they are all vegetarians.
It is made by specific bacteria found in the gut of silkworms and
these bacteria "digest" their cocoons. That is the extent of our
knowledge, the exact steps are not revealed to us by the manufacturer.
I have
visited a few websites, and came across yours. You seem to cast some doubt on
the use of this supplement, in regards to the amount a person should take. I went to another site
and found out that it has been used for at least 25 years, with NO side effects.
It has been used in Europe, and Asia, doctors prescribing and using it to treat
patients with major problems. I would tend to use this supplement, then use some
prescription drugs, with major side effects, as we have seen in the past few
years, especially with arthritis drugs.
There is a lot of information published on serrapeptase and
other supplements on the internet. It is up to the consumer to decide which web
site they find the most reliable and honest. We still have a lot to learn about its full benefits and
risks.
I'm adding to your data re joint/muscle pain side effects - I ordered the enzyme from Nutri-Health - object was relief of sciatic pain from traumatic injury of several years ago, on the theory that the nerve might be irritated by scar tissue. Total relief after 48 hours (4 doses of 20,000), but I continued it for a few more days to see if it would help with knee pain from torn meniscus. Overall achiness and finally real pain kept increasing to the point that I was finding it difficult to move when I found your site with the few references that matched my experience. I recovered from that effect after 2 days and stayed off the enzyme for a couple of weeks. Last week I tried it again to be certain and within 2 days began the pain once again. This time I have stopped the serrapeptase for good. There is probably no interaction involved as I take no prescription drugs, but do take many antioxidants and other supplements that reduce inflammation. However, I do test positive for rheumatoid arthritis although I am symptom-free through a strict diet.
Does it desolve kidney cysts?
I have not seen any studies regarding the role of serrapeptase
in kidney cysts.
Is it okay to take a
Wobenzym supplement together with a
serrapeptase enzyme product?
Not much is known about the effects or results of combining serrapeptase enzyme with
Wobenzym supplement, therefore I suggest not
taking them the same day.
Will serrapeptase dissolve scar tissue, as some claim?
Also, I ordered some serrapeptase tablets that are 80,000 units. They made my
blood pressure go up.
As of 2017, I am not aware of any human studies
regarding the dissolving of scar tissue with the use of serrapeptase
supplements. The use of serrapeptase pills and research regarding this product
is quite new and I suggest using lower dosages until more information is
available.
Greetings from Cambridge, England. It may be useful if I responsibly recount my serendipitous experience. Around two years back a colleague suggested I try a few low-power daily capsules to see whether sharp big-toe joint pain might be alleviated. Gout it resembled but gout it was NOT, as my general practitioner doctor discovered to his puzzlement when the standard uric acid lab test came back negative--nonetheless, stomach-irritating anti-inflams were offered with commiserations. I opted to try serrapeptase pills instead and found that the inflammation subsided quickly and with no stomach discomfort. An unexpected side-effect, however, was that dead-tissue collagen growths in my hands (bi-lateral Dupuytren's contractures) began to itch and tingle, and over the next couple of weeks finger dexterity loosened up noticeably. Background info: Two senior UK hand-surgeons, one of them US qualified, had advised against excision and z-plasty in my case as growths were judged aggressive and advanced, likely to recur within five years of surgery. I was encouraged to await availability of Santyl collagenase injection therapy (undergoing phase 3 trials and FDA control at Stoneybrook, Detroit, and elsewhere). 'Delay surgery as long as possible! Try and wait', said the surgeons. (And Phase 3 is not yet done.) Bent ring fingers have straightened up considerably as a result of my taking enteric coated serrapeptase, 30,000 iu each day over the last two years. The growths are visibly and palpably retreating, and I can now press my palms flat on a table top. Maybe the cords will wither away or snap and dissolve as I nowadays flex fingers to degrees which were impossible before. Presumably my lymph system is perforce processing a lot of dissolved dead tissue, unhealthy material, and this may well be a debilitating strain on the body's daily attempts to achieve homeostasis. I imagine that rises in temperature and occasional flu-like symptoms might be triggered when my body needs to rid itself of unwanted solutions. General practitioners seem puzzled and skeptical. They say nothing. A very senior hospital specialist treating chronic pain knows the enzyme and its use in state regulated medicine in Germany and Japan (for fibroids, blocked arteries, etc.), and has no reservations whatever about my using serrapeptase. I realise that this does not add up to longterm controlled trials and verifiable findings. Obviously I am pleased to get my hands back into better shape and fitness for purpose, but perhaps I am at risk as we do not know if longterm damage elsewhere in the body can result from bioactive agents taken extensively. I see a parallel with the Santyl collagenase enzymatic injection trials, taking the original enzyme from the King crab, I hear, not the silkworm as in serrapeptase, but the Santyl approach is a targeted, more topical and contained treatment.
I just purchased serrapaptase for my knee pain. Two doctor have recommended double knee replacement. I have already been through the arthroscopic surgery and the Synvisc injections and a vitamin / supplement program which consists of the following: D-ribose Magnesium COQ 10 L-Carnitine Quercitin Boswellia N-acetyl cysteine Fish oil. Anyway, I hope that it works for me and I will keep you posted.
I have a friend that is reluctant to use this enzyme
because she is taking the highest known prescription for inflammation. Is there
any research in regards to the safety of a person using anti-inflammatory drugs?
Not that I am aware of.
Has any research been done to support the use to mitigate
the damage done by Giant Cell arteritis? I have GCA and it has 100% clogged the
major artery (segmental occlusion of the left subclavian artery) to my left arm.
I’m wondering if this product might open it again.
As of 2017 a search on Medline did not reveal such research in
terms for giant cell arteritis treatment .
Last month I had a severe inflamation in my mouth to my throat, partly because of my allergy. I was already feverish and coughing so hard. I remembered from my research about serrapeptase that it is also good for inflamation, so I placed 3 tablets in my mouth in the morning (I did not swallow). In my surprised, in the afternoon the inflamation subside. I took another 3 tablets in the afternoon, and another before i sleep. The next day, in the morning, the inflamation in my mouth were totally gone. Since I could still feel a little on the lower part of my throat, I continue to take 2 tablets 2x a day with an empty stomach. Until now, I did not feel any side effects. In fact, I did not anymore feel the pain in my stomach due to symtom of myoma. I Have a lot of sickness actually. I have hypothyroidism, cysts, kidney stone, arteries problems and others. I just take natural medicine / supplements and my health is getting better compare 6 months ago. I continue researching in the internet other supplements that i could add to my daily maintenance and i found this serrapeptase in another web.
What is the fibrinolytic activity of this enzyme? I purchased
Neprinol and was wondering whether I should take it.
We are not aware of human studies that have evaluated the specific
fibrinolytic activity of serrapeptase although it may have some. It is
nattokinase that is often mentioned for its fibrin breakdown activity. Any
company that sells serrapeptase and claims it has a specific fibrinolytic
activity must provide you with published studies in reputable journals of their
particular product and whether what they claim about their product is true in
terms of its fibrin dissolving properties. As far as we know Neprinol is a mix
of several enzymes, not just one.
Q. My daughter has EDS Ehlers Danlos syndrome, and following
an operation to remove an ovarian cyst has had ongoing pain. She has had
numerous tests to rule out blockages etc and the view seems to be the pain is
caused by adhesions.Apparently further surgery to remove the adhesions is only
likely to produce MORE adhesions. We came across Serrapeptase which claims to
dissolve adhesions. However we are worried that it might also dissolve collagen
and as you know collagen production is faulty in EDS patients. Do you have any
advice / links to any research please?
A. As of 2018 I do not have experience in this area but I will look
out for such research.
Q. There is a website where the proprietor claims to have
taken 240,000 I.U. of serrapeptase daily for the past 13 years, and has taken
doses as high as 2,000,000 I.U. He discusses his experience and has also written
a book entitled, The Miracle enzyme is serrapeptase. I, personally, have been
using Doctor's Best at 40,000 I.U. and the suggested use states, "Take 1 capsule
up to 3 times daily without food." I use the product off and on. I am going to
contact this Robert Redfern as well as Doctor's Best to see if they have any
answers for me.
A. Although it is possible a minority of users may tolerate these
high amounts, most people would have untoward reactions to these massive
dosages.
Different misspellings that have been seen include serapeptase and sierrapeptase
Other products online
Doctor's Best, Best Serrapeptase, 90 Veggie Caps
Buy Serrapeptase 40,000 units
The silkworm has serrapeptase (also known as
Serratio Peptidase or serratiopeptidase), a proteolytic enzyme. This enteric
coated serrapeptase product is of the highest quality available. It is
manufactured by a FDA approved facility.
Serratiopeptidase, isolated from the microorganism Serratia E15, is naturally present in the silkworm intestine which allows the emerging moth to dissolve its cocoon. Clinical use in Europe and Asia spans over twenty five years.
Buy Serrapeptase supplement
Supplement Facts | ||
Serving Size: 1 capsule | ||
Servings Per Container: 90 servings | ||
Amount per serving | % Daily Value | |
Serrapeptase enzyme (serratiopeptidase activity units) | 40,000 SPU | † |
† Daily Value not established. |
Suggested use: The label says one to three serrapeptase
tablets a day, but we suggest you limit your use to one tablet daily or every
other day until more research is available. Do not exceed 4 tablets a week until
more research is published. We don't suggest using more than 40,000 units since
the benefits and risks on this high dose are not clearly understood. Discuss
with your doctor regarding its use before self-medicating.
Supplement Facts: Serrapeptase
SerratioPeptidase (40,000 units enteric coated granules)
Have approval by your doctor before use.
Testimonial received in 2018
I would like to report my experience with serrapeptase (Drs. Best, 40,000 SPU).
I have allergies and still find that I seem to have more mucus than the average
person my age, 73. Serrapeptase has done nothing to change this in any way. I
doubt it would help with a cold in my case. I found one huge benefit, in my
case. I think I had a 2-3" circle of peripheral artery disease in my left calf.
If I sleep on my left side with my right leg laying on top of the left effected
leg, this would cause mild pain in the effected area. This area is also where
the greatest concentration of weight was located. I took the serrapeptase on and
off for a couple of months, and this was no longer an issue. I also used to be a
beer drinker, and would occasionally get small ischemic strokes. This also
stopped. This stopped when I stopped the beer. I have had absolutely no adverse
reactions to the serrapeptase. My gut, however, has always been to take the
product for a month or two and then lay off for months.