Stack Genius ingredient guide
Serrapeptase
A proteolytic enzyme originally isolated from Serratia bacteria, sold as an enteric-coated supplement for inflammation, sinus congestion, and post-surgery swelling.
Overview
Serrapeptase is an enzyme produced by Serratia bacteria, which were originally identified in the gut of silkworms. In supplement form, it is a purified proteolytic enzyme that breaks down proteins, and it has been used for decades in Japan and parts of Europe for post-surgery swelling and sinus congestion.
The enzyme is delivered in enteric-coated capsules so it can pass through stomach acid and be absorbed intact from the small intestine. Once in circulation, proponents argue it helps clear fibrin, thin mucus, and modulate inflammation, though direct measurement of these effects in humans is limited.
In the US, serrapeptase is sold as a dietary supplement rather than a drug. That is an important distinction because most of the older clinical work happened when it was regulated as a medication elsewhere, and the quality and dose of supplement-grade products can vary considerably.
Key takeaways
- Serrapeptase is a proteolytic enzyme delivered in enteric-coated capsules.
- It is best known for sinus, swelling, and general inflammation support.
- Evidence quality is uneven, so expectations should be modest.
Practical guidance
What to know before adding Serrapeptase
Evidence snapshot
Older, mostly small trials from Japan and Europe reported reductions in post-surgical swelling and sinus congestion with serrapeptase. Higher-quality modern trials are sparse, and systematic reviews describe the evidence base as suggestive rather than definitive.
What to look for on the label
Serrapeptase activity is measured in serrapeptidase units (SPU) or SU, not milligrams. Look for a stated unit count per capsule, typically 20,000 to 120,000 SPU, along with confirmation that the capsule is enteric coated. Products that list only milligrams without unit activity are hard to compare.
What makes a better product
Better products state enzyme activity clearly, use a delayed-release or enteric coating verified for the enzyme, and avoid combining serrapeptase with acidic ingredients in the same capsule. Because it is a bacterial-derived protein, allergen and vegan status should be labeled.
Watch-outs
Serrapeptase can thin blood and interact with anticoagulants like warfarin, direct oral anticoagulants, or antiplatelet drugs. High doses have been linked to case reports of lung inflammation and skin reactions. It should be paused before scheduled surgery or dental work.
Dosing & Timing
Common supplement doses are one enteric-coated capsule providing 20,000 to 120,000 SPU one to three times per day. To improve absorption, capsules are typically taken on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before food or two hours after.
Safety and interaction context
Bleeding risk is the main safety consideration, particularly when serrapeptase is stacked with blood thinners, aspirin, high-dose fish oil, nattokinase, or other proteolytic enzymes. People with clotting disorders, active ulcers, upcoming procedures, pregnancy, or breastfeeding should avoid self-directed use. Case reports have described allergic, skin, and pulmonary reactions.
Sources
- MedlinePlus dietary supplementsConsumer framing for enzyme supplements.
- NCCIH supplements wiselyFramework for weaker-evidence categories.
- PubMed CentralSource for primary serrapeptase trials.
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