Serrapeptase (Serratiopeptidase)
Commonly used for
Joint Health
Where to Buy
Our experts personally review each product we recommend for quality and cost effectiveness.
The cheapest product is usually low quality, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
The cheapest product is usually low quality, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
Wellness uses
Sinus support
This is anecdotal, and there isn't strong clinical evidence that it works for everyone.
What is it? / Overview
Serrapeptase is a proteolytic enzyme proposed to reduce edema by thinning inflammatory fluids and breaking down fibrin, but a systematic review found the supporting evidence insufficient and of poor quality, with long-term safety data lacking -- rare reports of pneumonitis and skin reactions have also been documented.
How is it used? / Administration
Form: Serratiopeptidase (a zinc metalloprotease from Serratia E-15), enteric-coated to survive gastric acid
Typical dose studied: ~10-60 mg/day (units vary by product)
Timing: On an empty stomach for systemic anti-inflammatory intent
Evidence is thin despite widespread popularity. Bleeding/perioperative risk and rare pulmonary/skin reactions have been reported.
How well does it work? / Evidence
? Emerging / limited evidence
Who should avoid it?
Avoid with: Bleeding disorder / Coagulopathy; End-stage liver disease / Cirrhosis; Chronic kidney disease (Stage 3, 4, or 5) — NOT on dialysis
Interacts with: Anticoagulants, antiplatelets -- additive bleeding risk (fibrinolytic activity)
Already taking it? A systematic review found the supporting trials for serrapeptase to be of poor methodology and long-term safety data lacking -- reasonable to continue if genuinely helpful, but the evidence base is honestly thinner than its popularity suggests.
Research & references
Bhagat S et al. (2013). Serratiopeptidase: a systematic review of the existing evidence. Int J Surg.
Disclosure: Knozela is a participant in the Amazon Associates affiliate program. Some "Where to buy" links on this page are affiliate links -- if you make a purchase through them, Knozela may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.