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Dietary supplement

Bromelain 500 mg Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Solgar

Capsule Category: Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Bromelain 500 mg is a dietary supplement by Solgar with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for inflammation and swelling, sinus and nasal congestion, digestion support.Based on those ingredients, 141 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Bromelain. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Bromelain 500 mg by Solgar

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This product contains one active ingredient: bromelain, a protein-digesting enzyme sourced from pineapple stem. Each capsule delivers 500 mg.

The remaining ingredients are inactive—microcrystalline cellulose, vegetable cellulose, silica, citric acid, and soy lecithin powder—which serve as fillers and binders to hold the capsule together.

Does it work?

Not established
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Not established

The graded evidence we hold for these ingredients covers different conditions than the ones this product is marketed for, so there's no established rating for its stated use — see Bromelain's own graded uses on its monograph.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: protein digestion support.
  • We looked for evidence on: Postoperative swelling, Postoperative pain, Exercise-induced muscle soreness, Wound healing.
  • The closest evidence on file: Bromelain is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Exercise-induced muscle soreness (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Bromelain is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Wound healing, Postoperative swelling, Postoperative pain.

The evidence for bromelain isn't established in our data. The facts we hold do not show reliable evidence to rate it for hay fever, burns, cancer, nerve pain from chemotherapy, chronic venous insufficiency, or diabetes.

If you're considering this product for one of these reasons, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether the research supports its use for your specific situation.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Bromelain

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Bromelain is generally well tolerated when taken by mouth short-term, though long-term safety data is limited. The most common side effects are digestive—diarrhea, flatulence, stomach upset, and headache.

Rarely, IgE-mediated allergic reactions can occur; inhaling bromelain may trigger sensitization and asthma, with symptoms like throat itching, difficulty swallowing, eye irritation, and runny nose. During pregnancy, there isn't enough safety data, so it's best avoided.

The safety while breastfeeding is unknown, so avoid it then too. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Bromelain

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Bromelain.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs.
  • For scale: 141 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before you take this, double-check any blood thinners (anticoagulants) or antiplatelet medications you're on—bromelain may increase bleeding risk with these. Also confirm any tetracycline antibiotics you're taking, though the real-world impact remains uncertain.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Bromelain may be worth considering if you're looking for digestive enzyme support, but it does carry a moderate interaction risk with blood thinners and antiplatelet drugs. If you take any of those medications—or any prescription drug—check them against the interaction tool here first.

Long-term safety data is scarce, and it's not recommended in pregnancy or while breastfeeding, so confirm with your own doctor or pharmacist before you start.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Apr 23, 2020.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Bromelain 500 mg, straight from the product label.

Brand Solgar
Barcode (UPC) 033984004047
Net contents 60 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Apr 23, 2020
DSLD ID 217410
Product type Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Vegan, Vegetarian, Adult (18 - 50 Years), Kosher, Gluten Free, Dairy Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Bromelain 500 mg by Solgar, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
UPC/BARCODE
033984004047
IngredientAmount% DV
Bromelain500 mg--

Other ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Vegetable Cellulose, Silica, Citric Acid, Soy Lecithin powder

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formulation

Digestive enzymes break down the nutritional components of foods, making these nutrients available for the body’s energy needs, cell growth and other vital functions required for optimal health.

Gluten, wheat & dairy free Non-GMO

Suitable for vegans

Free of: Gluten, wheat, dairy, yeast, sugar, sodium, artificial flavor, sweetener, preservatives and color.

Formula

Bromelain is a natural proteolytic digestive enzyme derived from pineapple, which helps in the digestion of protein.

Solgar’s KOF-K certification #K-1250

FDA Disclaimer Statement

This statements has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Brand IP Statement(s)

2018 Solgar, Inc.

General Statements

Solgar since 1947

Seals/Symbols

GF Certified Gluten-free K Parve (Kosher)

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Precautions

Contains soy ingredients.

If you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medications or have any medical condition, please consult your healthcare practitioner before taking any dietary supplement.

Discontinue use and consult your healthcare practitioner if any adverse reactions occur.

Keep out of reach of children.

Do not use if outer bottle seal is missing or damaged.

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement for adults, take one (1) capsule three times daily, preferably with a meal or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.

Storage

Store at room temperature.

See for yourself

Bromelain 500 mg by Solgar label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Bromelain 500 mg by Solgar

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Amounts shown are per serving.

Bromelain

Interacts with
141 drugs
500 mg per serving Form: Pineapple

Bromelain is a group of protein-digesting enzymes from pineapple that people take mainly for inflammation, swelling, and sinus problems. Some early st...

Bromelain monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Vegetable Cellulose, Silica, Citric Acid, Soy Lecithin powder. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Bromelain 500 mg by Solgar Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Bromelain 500 mg?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
141Drugs
122 Moderate 19 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Bromelain 141

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Bromelain 500 mg with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Bromelain2 drug types · 141 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Bromelain may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
There is one case report of a patient experiencing minor bruising while taking bromelain with naproxen. Bromelain is thought to have antiplatelet activity. Whether this interaction is of concern with topical bromelain is unclear. Interference with coagulation of burn wounds has been reported in a patient receiving bromelain-based enzymatic debridement. However, observational research has found that topical bromelain debridement is not associated with increases or decreases in laboratory markers of coagulation when compared with surgical debridement.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tetracycline Antibiotics

Theoretically, bromelain might increase levels of tetracycline antibiotics.
Laboratory research suggests that bromelain might increase the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics. However, a study in healthy adults reported no difference in tetracycline plasma levels when a 500 mg dose was taken with or without bromelain 80 mg.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Bromelain 500 mg, from the product label.

Solgar

See all Solgar products
Name
Solgar, Inc.
Street Address
500 Willow Tree Road
City
Leonia
State
NJ
ZipCode
07605
Phone Number
1-877-765-4274
Web Address
www.solgar.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Bromelain 500 mg by Solgar: Common Questions

Does Bromelain 500 mg by Solgar interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Bromelain 500 mg has a known interaction with 141 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Bromelain 500 mg contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
What side effects should I watch for?
Most common are digestive issues—diarrhea, gas, stomach upset, and headache. Rarely, allergic reactions can happen, especially if you're allergic to pineapple. If you inhale bromelain (not typical with capsules), it may trigger asthma or throat symptoms.
Is bromelain safe to take long-term?
Short-term use is generally well tolerated, but we don't have much data on long-term safety. If you're planning to use it regularly for months, talk it over with your doctor or pharmacist.
Can I take this while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. There isn't enough safety data in pregnancy, so it's best avoided. Safety while breastfeeding is also unknown, so avoid it then too. Chat with your doctor or pharmacist if you're expecting or nursing.
Does bromelain actually work for what it claims?
The evidence we hold doesn't establish reliable proof for the conditions people commonly ask about—hay fever, burns, cancer, nerve pain, or circulation problems. If you're considering it for a specific reason, your doctor or pharmacist can help you weigh what research exists outside our data.
What's in the capsule besides bromelain?
The rest is inactive ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, vegetable cellulose, silica, citric acid, and soy lecithin powder. These are fillers and binders, so if you're allergic to soy, this isn't for you.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Bromelain 500 mg is safe with your meds?

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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Bromelain 500 mg label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Bromelain 500 mg's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 19 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Bromelain 19 references
  1. Nettis E, Napoli G, Ferrannini A, Tursi A. IgE-mediated allergy to bromelain. Allergy 2001;56:257-8. PubMed
  2. Taussig SJ, Batkin S. Bromelain, the enzyme complex of pineapple (Ananas comosus) and its clinical application. An update. J Ethnopharmacol 1988;22:191-203.. PubMed
  3. Bradbrook ID, Morrison PJ, Rogers HJ. The effect of bromelain on the absorption of orally administered tetracycline. Br J Clin Pharmacol 1978;6:552-4. PubMed
  4. Bush TM, Rayburn KS, Holloway SW, et al. Adverse interactions between herbal and dietary substances and prescription medications: a clinical survey. Altern Ther Health Med 2007;13:30-5.
  5. Brien S, Lewith G, Walker AF, et al. Bromelain as an adjunctive treatment for moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized placebo-controlled pilot study. QJM 2006;99:841-50. PubMed
  6. Mori S, Ojima Y, Hirose T, et al. The clinical effect of proteolytic enzyme containing bromelain and trypsin on urinary tract infection evaluated by double blind method. Acta Obstet Gynaecol Jpn 1972;19:147-53.
  7. Glaser D, Hilberg T. The influence of bromelain on platelet count and platelet activity in vitro. Platelets 2006;17:37-41. PubMed
  8. Heinicke R M, van der Wal L, Yokoyama M. Effect of bromelain (Ananase) on human platelet aggregation. Experientia 1972;28:844-5. PubMed
  9. Gailhofer, G., Wilders-Truschnig, M., Smolle, J., and Ludvan, M. Asthma caused by bromelain: an occupational allergy. Clin Allergy 1988;18(5):445-450. PubMed
  10. Mattei, O., Fabri, G., and Farina, G. [Occupational health experience regarding four cases of asthma due to bromelain (author's transl)]. Medicina del Lavoro 1979;70(5):404-409.
  11. Galleguillos, F. and Rodriguez, J. C. Asthma caused by bromelin inhalation. Clin Allergy 1978;8(1):21-24. PubMed
  12. Perez-Camo I, Quirce S, Duran MA, and et al. Latex allergy: evidence of cross-reactivity with papain and bromelain [abstract]. Allergy 1996;51(suppl 31):48.
  13. Martin GJ, Ehrenreich J, and Asbell N. Bromelain: pineapple proteases with anti-edema activity. Exp Med Surg 1962;20:227-247.
  14. Kasemsuk T, Saengpetch N, Sibmooh N, Unchern S. Improved WOMAC score following 16-week treatment with bromelain for knee osteoarthritis. Clin Rheumatol. 2016 Oct;35(10):2531-40. PubMed
  15. Kutlu Ö, DemirbaS A, Elmas ÖF, Güvenç U, Metin A. Fixed drug eruption: a new side effect of bromelain. Contact Dermatitis 2020. Online ahead of print. PubMed
  16. Shoham Y, Shapira E, Haik J, et al. Bromelain-based enzymatic debridement of chronic wounds: Results of a multicentre randomized controlled trial. Wound Repair Regen 2021;29(6):899-907. PubMed
  17. Pfister P, Garcia Wendel PD, Kim BS, et al. Coagulation side effects of enzymatic debridement in burned patients. Burns 2022. PubMed
  18. Hasham S, Riyat H, Fletcher A, O'Boyle CP, Alexander S. To bleed or not to bleed? Case series and discussion of haemorrhage risk with enzymatic debridement in burn injuries. Scars Burn Heal 2023;9:20595131231168333. PubMed
  19. Leelakanok N, Petchsomrit A, Janurai T, Saechan C, Sunsandee N. Efficacy and safety of bromelain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Health 2023. PubMed

See these in context on the Bromelain monograph →

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

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