Digestive Enzyme Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by USANA
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Digestive Enzyme against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.
Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy
Digestive Enzyme is a dietary supplement by USANA with 8 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for digestive support for protein digestion, wound cleaning (debridement of dead tissue), sore throat and inflammation.Based on those ingredients, 488 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Artichoke extract, Bromelain, Papain. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Digestive Enzyme by USANA
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Digestive Enzyme by USANA — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.
AI summaries are generated from our interaction database for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI
Ask the Pharmacist
A licensed pharmacist will answer your question by email — free, usually within 24 hours.
Got it — thank you!
A licensed pharmacist will answer within 24 hours. Keep an eye on your email (worth checking spam, just in case).
HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Digestive Enzyme by USANA
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.
What’s inside
Low disclosure
This tablet contains eight active digestive enzymes: papain, bromelain, protease, lipase, and lactase, plus cellulase and alpha-amylase, all working to break down different foods in your digestive tract. The formula also includes artichoke extract, traditionally used to support digestion.
These are mixed with standard inactive ingredients like cellulose, starch, and silicon dioxide, which help form and stabilize the tablet.
Does it work?
Strong evidence
The data shows lactase is effective for lactose intolerance — if you can't digest milk sugar, this enzyme directly helps break it down. Artichoke extract is possibly effective for high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia) and indigestion (dyspepsia); small studies suggest it may modestly lower cholesterol and ease digestive discomfort.
For the other enzymes — papain, bromelain, protease, lipase, and cellulase — the evidence isn't established in the data we hold. Most of the conditions they're used for (like wound healing, inflammation, or specific digestive disorders) are rated insufficient reliable evidence, meaning we don't have solid proof they work for those purposes.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Papain, bromelain, protease, and artichoke extract are generally well tolerated short-term when taken at standard doses, but digestive upset — diarrhea, gas, nausea, or abdominal pain — can happen, especially in people sensitive to these ingredients. Allergic reactions to papain or bromelain are possible but uncommon; if you have asthma or allergies to ragweed or related plants, you're at higher risk.
At high doses, papain may cause serious digestive damage, though this is rare. Lactase is generally well tolerated.
The safety data on long-term use of bromelain is limited. During pregnancy, papain and artichoke extract are best avoided — safety data raises concerns — while bromelain and protease should also be skipped unless your doctor advises otherwise.
During breastfeeding, safety data is insufficient for papain, bromelain, protease, and artichoke, so talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product if you use blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs like warfarin, clopidogrel, or aspirin (moderate risk of increased bleeding). Also flag any blood pressure medications, diabetes medications, tetracycline antibiotics, or drugs processed by your liver through CYP2C19 or CYP2B6 pathways — the artichoke and bromelain in this formula may affect how they work or their levels in your blood.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with clinical evidence supporting its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
If you have trouble digesting lactose, the lactase in this formula is a solid choice. Artichoke extract may help with indigestion or cholesterol if you're not sensitive to it.
But before you start, check with your own doctor or pharmacist — especially if you take blood thinners, blood pressure pills, diabetes medications, or tetracycline antibiotics, as this product interacts with all of those. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss it with your healthcare provider first.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 6 of 8 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Nov 21, 2019.
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
General information
Key facts about Digestive Enzyme, straight from the product 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 Digestive Enzyme by USANA, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Papain | 0 NP | -- |
| Bromelain | 0 NP | -- |
| Protease | 0 NP | -- |
| Lipase | 0 NP | -- |
| Lactase | 0 NP | -- |
| Cellulase | 0 NP | -- |
| Alpha-Amylase | 0 NP | -- |
| Natural Enzyme Blend | 120 mg | -- |
| Artichoke extract | 25 mg | -- |
Other ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Croscarmellose Sodium, pregelatinized Starch, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Silicon Dioxide, Dextrin, Vanilla extract, Dextrose, Soy Lecithin, Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose, Sodium Citrate
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
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.
Seals/Symbols
Potency Guaranteed
FDA Statement of Identity
Dietary Supplement
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Directions: Take one (1) to three (3) tablets with a meal or as needed.
Formula
Contains: Soy.
Precautions
Contains: Soy.
Keep out of reach of children.
Consult your physician if you are pregnant, nursing, taking a prescription drug, or have a medical condition.
There is a safety seal under the cap. Do not use if the seal is broken or missing.
Formulation
No animal derived ingredients.
General Statements
Laboratory tested, quality guaranteed. Meets USP specification for uniformity, potency, and disintegration where applicable.
Storage
Keep tablets in original container with the lid tightly closed between uses. Store in a cool, dry place. Store below 25(0) C
General
111.010102 LB.001209
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Digestive Enzyme by USANA label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.
View the full label (PDF)The Ingredients in Digestive Enzyme by USANA
These are the 8 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Tablet(s) Dosage formTablet Or Pill Servings per container56 Amounts shown are per serving.
Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.
Artichoke extract
Interacts with363 drugs
Artichoke leaf extract is a generally well-tolerated supplement that may have a mild cholesterol-lowering effect and is often used for indigestion, th...
Artichoke extract monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Croscarmellose Sodium, Pregelatinized Starch, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Silicon Dioxide, Dextrin, Vanilla extract, Dextrose, Soy Lecithin, Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose, Sodium Citrate. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Digestive Enzyme by USANA Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
USANA Digestive Enzyme contains several ingredients that interact with medications.
Through its papain and bromelain content, this product poses a moderate risk with blood thinners (anticoagulants) like warfarin — papain may increase warfarin's blood-thinning effects, and one case report documented a patient's blood-thinning level spike after taking papain. Bromelain carries similar concern with blood thinners and antiplatelet drugs, raising bleeding risk.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Artichoke extract in this formula interacts with blood pressure medications (antihypertensive drugs), diabetes medications (antidiabetes drugs), and certain drugs your liver processes through the CYP2C19 and CYP2B6 pathways — all rated moderate severity. Theoretically, it may lower blood pressure further or increase low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) risk, and may raise levels of some prescription medications.
Bromelain also has a minor interaction with tetracycline antibiotics, which it may cause your body to absorb more readily, though a human study found no significant effect.
Protease, lipase, and lactase in the formula are generally well tolerated and no interactions are documented in our data. We could not check cellulase or alpha-amylase — interaction data isn't on file for those ingredients.
Altogether, these interactions span 488 individual medications.
Before you start this supplement, run your exact medications through the search tool on this page, and talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you take any blood thinner, blood pressure medication, diabetes medication, or an antibiotic in the tetracycline family.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Digestive Enzyme?
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 checkerIngredients driving the most interactions
Individual Drug Interactions
The ingredients in Digestive Enzyme interact with 488 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
3 of the 8 ingredients in Digestive Enzyme interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Artichoke extract Bromelain Papain
AbciximabReoPro
How Abciximab interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BromelainAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bromelain may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Bromelain + Abciximab interactionAbrocitinibCibinqo
How Abrocitinib interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Abrocitinib interactionBromelainAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bromelain may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Bromelain + Abrocitinib interactionAcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
How Acarbose interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Acarbose interactionAcebutololRhotral, Sectral
How Acebutolol interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Acebutolol interactionAcenocoumarolSintrom
How Acenocoumarol interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BromelainAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bromelain may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Bromelain + Acenocoumarol interactionAcetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BromelainAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bromelain may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Bromelain + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interactionAcetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BromelainAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bromelain may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Bromelain + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, IbuprofenCombogesic
How Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BromelainAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bromelain may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Bromelain + Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen interactionAcetaminophen, OrphenadrineOrfenagesic
How Acetaminophen, Orphenadrine interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2b6 (cyp2b6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Acetaminophen, Orphenadrine interactionAcetazolamideAk-Zol, Diamox
How Acetazolamide interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Acetazolamide interactionAcetohexamideDymelor
How Acetohexamide interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Acetohexamide interactionAcetylsalicylic AcidEntrophen
How Acetylsalicylic Acid interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BromelainAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bromelain may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Bromelain + Acetylsalicylic Acid interactionAerosphere Budesonide, Formoterol Fumarate, GlycopyrrolateBreztri
How Aerosphere Budesonide, Formoterol Fumarate, Glycopyrrolate interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Aerosphere Budesonide, Formoterol Fumarate, Glycopyrrolate interactionAgomelatineValdoxan
How Agomelatine interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Agomelatine interactionAlbiglutideTanzeum
How Albiglutide interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Albiglutide interactionAliskirenTekturna
How Aliskiren interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Aliskiren interactionAlogliptinNesina
How Alogliptin interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Alogliptin interactionAlogliptin, MetforminKazano
How Alogliptin, Metformin interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Alogliptin, Metformin interactionAlogliptin, PioglitazoneOseni
How Alogliptin, Pioglitazone interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Alogliptin, Pioglitazone interactionAlteplase, TpaActilyse, Activase
How Alteplase, Tpa interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BromelainAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bromelain may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Bromelain + Alteplase, Tpa interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #2
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BromelainAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bromelain may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Bromelain + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BromelainAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bromelain may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Bromelain + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAmbrisentanLetairis, Volibris
How Ambrisentan interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Ambrisentan interactionAmilorideAmilamont, Midamor
How Amiloride interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Amiloride interactionAmiloride, HydrochlorothiazideAmil-Co, Amilzide, Moduret 25, Moduretic
How Amiloride, Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Amiloride, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionAmitriptylineElavil
How Amitriptyline interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Amitriptyline interactionAmitriptyline, ChlordiazepoxideLimbitrol DS
How Amitriptyline, Chlordiazepoxide interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Amitriptyline, Chlordiazepoxide interactionAmitriptyline, PerphenazineEtrafon, Etrafon-A, Etrafon-Forte, Triavil
How Amitriptyline, Perphenazine interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Amitriptyline, Perphenazine interactionAmlodipineNorliqva
How Amlodipine interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Amlodipine interactionAmlodipine BenzoateKaterzia
How Amlodipine Benzoate interacts with Digestive Enzyme — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Amlodipine Benzoate interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Digestive Enzyme with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.
Artichoke extract
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
A meta-analysis of small clinical studies shows that taking artichoke leaf extract for 8-12 weeks can modestly reduce fasting plasma glucose when compared with placebo.
Antihypertensive Drugs
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
A meta-analysis of small clinical studies in patients with hypertension shows that taking artichoke can reduce systolic blood pressure by around 3 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by around 2 mmHg when compared with placebo.
Cytochrome P450 2B6 (Cyp2B6) Substrates
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
In vitro research shows that artichoke leaf extract inhibits CYP2B6 activity. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
In vitro research shows that artichoke leaf extract inhibits CYP2C19 activity. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.
Bromelain
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.
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.
Papain
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Theoretically, papain might increase the effects and side effects of warfarin.
In one case report, a patient previously stable on warfarin was found to have an international normalization ratio (INR) of 7.4, which was attributed to ingestion of a supplement containing papain from papaya extract.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Digestive Enzyme, from the product label.
USANA
See all USANA products- Name
- USANA Health Sciences, Inc.
- Street Address
- 3838 W. Parkway Blvd.
- City
- Salt Lake City
- State
- Utah
- ZipCode
- 84120
Digestive Enzyme by USANA: Common Questions
Does Digestive Enzyme by USANA interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Will this help my digestion?
Can I take this if I'm on warfarin?
What are the most common side effects?
Is it safe during pregnancy?
Can I take this with tetracycline antibiotics?
What if I'm allergic to ragweed?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Digestive Enzyme is safe with your meds?
Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.
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.
The Full Monographs Behind Digestive Enzyme’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Papain
Interacts with 2 drugsPapain is a protein-digesting enzyme from the papaya plant that is used in digestive supplements and some topical products. While it has clear food and laboratory uses, strong human evidence...
Read the full Papain monograph → Herb & supplement monographBromelain
Interacts with 141 drugsBromelain is a group of protein-digesting enzymes from pineapple that people take mainly for inflammation, swelling, and sinus problems. Some early studies are promising, but the overall evi...
Read the full Bromelain monograph → Herb & supplement monographProteolytic Enzymes (proteases)
Proteolytic enzymes are proteins that help break down other proteins, and common examples include bromelain (from pineapple), papain (from papaya), trypsin, chymotrypsin, and pancreatin. Peo...
Read the full Proteolytic Enzymes (proteases) monograph → Herb & supplement monographLipase
Lipase is a digestive enzyme that helps your body break down dietary fats. It is well established as part of prescription pancreatic enzyme therapy for people who cannot make enough of their...
Read the full Lipase monograph → Herb & supplement monographLactase
Lactase is a digestive enzyme supplement that helps people who lack enough natural lactase break down lactose, the sugar in milk and dairy. It can reduce gas, bloating, cramping, and diarrhe...
Read the full Lactase monograph → Herb & supplement monographArtichoke
Interacts with 363 drugsArtichoke leaf extract is a generally well-tolerated supplement that may have a mild cholesterol-lowering effect and is often used for indigestion, though the evidence is modest. It is not a...
Read the full Artichoke monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Digestive Enzyme'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.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — The official product label on file for this supplement.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference behind the ingredient interaction data.
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 51 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.
Papain 11 references
- The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
- Shaw D, Leon C, Kolev S, Murray V. Traditional remedies and food supplements: a 5-year toxicological study (1991-1995). Drug Saf 1997;17:342-56.
- Shuttleworth D, Hill S, Marks R, Connelly DM. Relief of experimentally induced pruritus with a novel eutectic mixture of local anaesthetic agents. Br J Dermatol 1988;119:535-40.
- Mansfield LE, Ting S, Haverly RW, Yoo TJ. The incidence and clinical implications of hypersensitivity to papain in an allergic population, confirmed by blinded oral challenge. Ann Allergy 1985;55:541-3.
- Martin, T., Uhder, K., Kurek, R., Roeddiger, S., Schneider, L., Vogt, H. G., Heyd, R., and Zamboglou, N. Does prophylactic treatment with proteolytic enzymes reduce acute toxicity of adjuvant pelvic irradiation? Results of a double-blind randomized trial PubMed
- Walker-Renard, P. Update on the medicinal management of phytobezoars. Am J Gastroenterol. 1993;88(10):1663-1666.
- Tymoszuk D, Wiszniewska M, Walusiak-Skorupa J. Papain-induced occupational rhinoconjunctivitis and asthma - A case report. Med Pr 2016;67(1):109-12. PubMed
- Soto-Mera MT, López-Rico MR, Filgueira JF, et al. Occupational allergy to papain. Allergy 2000;55(10):983-4. PubMed
- Tarlo SM, Shaikh W, Bell B, et al. Papain-induced allergic reactions. Clin Allergy 1978;8(3):207-15. PubMed
- Baur X, König G, Bencze K, Fruhmann G. Clinical symptoms and results of skin test, RAST and bronchial provocation test in thirty-three papain workers: Evidence for strong immunogenic potency and clinically relevant proteolytic e?ects of airborne papain. C
- Novey HS, Keenan WJ, Fairshter RD, Wells ID, Wilson AF, Culver BD. Pulmonary disease in workers exposed to papain: clinico-physiological and immunological studies. Clin Allergy 1980;10(6):721-31. PubMed
Bromelain 19 references
- Nettis E, Napoli G, Ferrannini A, Tursi A. IgE-mediated allergy to bromelain. Allergy 2001;56:257-8. PubMed
- 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
- 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
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- Glaser D, Hilberg T. The influence of bromelain on platelet count and platelet activity in vitro. Platelets 2006;17:37-41. PubMed
- Heinicke R M, van der Wal L, Yokoyama M. Effect of bromelain (Ananase) on human platelet aggregation. Experientia 1972;28:844-5. PubMed
- 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
- 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.
- Galleguillos, F. and Rodriguez, J. C. Asthma caused by bromelin inhalation. Clin Allergy 1978;8(1):21-24. PubMed
- 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.
- Martin GJ, Ehrenreich J, and Asbell N. Bromelain: pineapple proteases with anti-edema activity. Exp Med Surg 1962;20:227-247.
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Pfister P, Garcia Wendel PD, Kim BS, et al. Coagulation side effects of enzymatic debridement in burned patients. Burns 2022. PubMed
- 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
- 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
Proteolytic Enzymes (proteases) 3 references
- Weeks JA, Harper RA, Simon RA, Burdick JD. Assessment of sensitization risk of a laundry pre-spotter containing protease. Cutan Ocul Toxicol. 2011;30(4):272-9. PubMed
- Marquès LI, Lara S, Abós T, Bartolomé B. Occupational rhinitis due to pepsin. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol. 2006;16(2):136-7. DOI
- Cartier A, Malo JL, Pineau L, Dolovich J. Occupational asthma due to pepsin. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1984;73(5 Pt 1):574-7. PubMed
See these in context on the Proteolytic Enzymes (proteases) monograph →
Lipase 1 reference
- Casper C, Hascoet JM, Ertl T, et al. Recombinant bile salt-stimulated lipase in preterm infant feeding: A randomized phase 3 study. PLoS One. 2016;11(5):e0156071. PubMed
Lactase 1 reference
- Laukkanen A, Ruoppi P, Remes S, Koistinen T, Mäkinen-Kiljunen S. Lactase-induced occupational protein contact dermatitis and allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. Contact Dermatitis. 2007;57(2):89-93. PubMed
Artichoke 16 references
- Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
- Walker AF, Middleton RW, Petrowicz O. Artichoke leaf extract reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in a post-marketing surveillance study. Phytother Res 2001;15:58-61. PubMed
- Pittler MH, White AR, Stevinson C, Ernst E. Effectiveness of artichoke extract in preventing alcohol-induced hangovers: a randomized controlled trial. CMAJ 2003;169:1269-73.
- Romano, C., Ferrara, A., and Falagiani, P. A case of allergy to globe artichoke and other clinical cases of rare food allergy. J Investig.Allergol.Clin Immunol. 2000;10(2):102-104.
- Miralles, J. C., Garcia-Sells, J., Bartolome, B., and Negro, J. M. Occupational rhinitis and bronchial asthma due to artichoke (Cynara scolymus). Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2003;91(1):92-95. PubMed
- Franck, P., Moneret-Vautrin, D. A., Morisset, M., Kanny, G., Megret-Gabeaux, M. L., and Olivier, J. L. Anaphylactic reaction to inulin: first identification of specific IgEs to an inulin protein compound. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2005;136(2):155-158. PubMed
- Meding, B. Allergic contact dermatitis from artichoke, Cynara scolymus. Contact Dermatitis 1983;9(4):314.
- Quirce, S., Tabar, A. I., Olaguibel, J. M., and Cuevas, M. Occupational contact urticaria syndrome caused by globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus). J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1996;97(2):710-711. PubMed
- Held C. Von der 1. Deutsche-Ungarischen Phytopharmakon-Konferenz, Budapest, 20. November 1991. Z Klin Med 1992;47:92-93.
- Barrat E, Zaïr Y, Ogier N, et al. A combined natural supplement lowers LDL cholesterol in subjects with moderate untreated hypercholesterolemia: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2013;64(7):882-9. PubMed
- Huber R, Müller M, Naumann J, Schenk T, Lüdtke R. Artichoke leave extract for chronic hepatitis C - a pilot study. Phytomedicine. 2009 Sep;16(9):801-4. PubMed
- Caputo F, Barranco R, Bonsignore A, Fraternali Orcioni G, Ventura F. A rare case of fatal bowel obstruction secondary to a colonic bezoar. Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2018;39(1):38-40. PubMed
- Elsebai MF, Abass K, Hakkola J, Atawia AR, Farag MA. The wild Egyptian artichoke as a promising functional food for the treatment of hepatitis C virus as revealed via UPLC-MS and clinical trials. Food Funct. 2016;7(7):3006-16. PubMed
- Moradi M, Sohrabi G, Golbidi M, et al. Effects of artichoke on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med 2021;57:102668. PubMed
- Jalili C, Moradi S, Babaei A, et al. Effects of Cynara scolymus L. on glycemic indices: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Complement Ther Med 2020;52:102496. PubMed
- Gallo R, Oddenino G, Trave I, Gasparini G, Guadagno A, Parodi A. Contact sensitivity to sesquiterpene lactone mix and artichoke in a patient with severe recurrent dermatitis: A puzzling case. Contact Dermatitis 2023;88(2):156-158. PubMed
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