Papain - Nucala (Mepolizumab) Interaction
Herbal: Papain
Also Known As: Papainum Crudum, Plant Protease Concentrate, Protease, Vegetable Pepsin
Drug: Mepolizumab
Brand names:
Nucala
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 25, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Mepolizumab and Papain. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Papain Overview
Papain is a proteolytic enzyme that is extracted from the papaya fruit. It is also known as papaya proteinase. Proteolytic enzymes are enzymes that break down proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids. Papain specifically breaks down proteins by hydrolyzing the peptide bonds that link amino acids together. Papain is used in a variety of applications, including food production, medicine, and biotechnology.
Medically, papain can be used to remove dead tissue from wounds and to treat certain skin conditions. It has also been used to treat sports injuries, such as sprains and strains. Additionally, it is a common ingredient in digestive enzyme dietary supplements to aid in the digestion of proteins.
Mepolizumab Overview
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Mepolizumab injection is used along with other medications to prevent wheezing, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, and coughing caused by asthma in certain children 6 years of age and older and adults whose asthma is not controlled with their current asthma medication(s). Mepolizumab injection is also used along with other medications to treat chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (ongoing runny nose, sinus swelling or nasal congestion, with or without a reduced sense of smell or pain and pressure in the face) in adults whose symptoms are not controlled with other medications. It is also used to treat eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA; a condition that involves asthma, high levels of white blood cells, and blood vessel swelling) in adults. Mepolizumab injection is also used to treat hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES; group of blood disorders that occurs with high levels of certain white blood cells) in adults and children 12 years and older who have had this condition for 6 months or longer. Mepolizumab injection is in a class of medications called monoclonal antibodies. It works by blocking the action of a certain natural substance in the body that causes the symptoms of asthma.
Papain - More Interactions
Papain interacts with 2 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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