Serrapeptase is an enzyme isolated from a bacteria found in silkworms. Serrapeptase has been used for years in Japan and Europe to reduce inflammation and pain due to surgery, trauma, and other conditions. It is widely available as a dietary supplement and has many health benefits.

Serrapeptase is commonly used for:
• Reducing inflammation
• Clearing mucous
• Reducing pain and swelling from injuries, arthritis, or other causes
• Calming tenderness in the bowels and pain from fibroids

Note that serrapeptase is typically measured in activity units (SUs) rather than milligrams (mg).

For example, a dosage of 60,000 SU is equivalent to approximately 60 mg of serrapeptase.

When taken orally, serrapeptase is easily destroyed and deactivated by your stomach acid before it has a chance to be absorbed by your intestines. For this reason, dietary supplements containing serrapeptase should be enteric-coated, which prevents them from being dissolved in the stomach and allows for release in the intestine.

The maintenance dose is 10-30 milligrams (mg) per day, taken on an empty stomach.

Higher doses of 30-120 mg per day may be recommended for specific conditions, but this should be determined by a healthcare professional.

As always, consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Serrapeptase can interact with blood thinners. It may be contraindicated in people with bleeding disorders and should be stopped prior to surgery.