Digestive Enzyme Supplement Safety

Digestive enzymes like lactase, amylase, papain and bromelain are commonly used as naturopathic treatments for irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance and inflammatory bowel disease. These supplements are generally recognized as safe and have few side effects or drug interactions.

Types

Enzymes that digest sugars and starches, such as lactase and amylase, as associated with few side effects beyond placebo. However, the U.S. National Institutes of Health warn that protease enzymes like bromelain are associated with several potential risks.

Allergy Risk

Protease enzymes like bromelain (from pineapple) and papain (from papaya) may contain trace amounts of their original fruit-based sources. They may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Bleeding Risk

Some digestive enzyme supplements have anticogaultant effects; they may theoretically increase the risk of nosebleeds and hemorrhage. This risk is most serious in people taking blood thinners.

Drug Interactions

Digestive enzymes can theoretically interact with blood thinners and drugs that influence blood-glucose levels. Protease enzymes enhance the absorption of antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs.

Safety in Pregnancy

Amylase and lactase supplements are unlikely to influence pregnancy or lactation. However, high-dose supplements containing protease enzymes may increase the risk of bleeding or miscarriage.

References

• NIH Medline Plus: Bromelain