Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 2 of 3 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Protease Plus Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Nature's Sunshine

Capsule Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Protease Plus is a dietary supplement by Nature's Sunshine with 3 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for digestion and bloating, muscle soreness and exercise recovery, inflammation and swelling.Based on those ingredients, 861 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Beet root Fiber. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Protease Plus by Nature's Sunshine

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

Low disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Low

Most active ingredients don't disclose an individual amount — you can't tell how much of each you're getting.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 0 of its 3 active ingredients.
  • “Proprietary Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (1,500 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Protease Plus contains 3 active ingredients. Protease is a digestive enzyme — one of a family of enzymes (proteolytic enzymes) that break down proteins.

Beet root fiber is the concentrated fiber from beets, a root vegetable. The product also includes a trace mineral blend, which we don't have detailed information on.

The product is delivered in a capsule. There is one inactive ingredient: the capsule itself.

Does it work?

Couldn't assess
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 assessable

We hold no graded evidence for this product's ingredients for its stated purpose.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: protein digestion and digestive support.
  • Our graded evidence for these ingredients doesn't cover that particular purpose.

Evidence for protease enzymes as a standalone supplement isn't established in our data. For beet root fiber specifically, the data shows it's possibly effective for athletic performance and exercise-induced muscle soreness.

However, beet shows possibly ineffective results for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and there isn't enough evidence to rate it for dyslipidemia (blood fat levels) or cognitive function. The trace mineral blend's effectiveness isn't on file with us.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Proteolytic Enzymes (proteases) Beet

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 2 of the 2 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 2 of 2.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 2 of 2.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Protease is generally well tolerated in most adults but may cause digestive upset or allergic reactions in some people. Rarely, people exposed to airborne proteolytic enzymes occupationally have developed allergic rhinitis or asthma.

Beet root as a food is generally well tolerated, but concentrated supplements lack solid safety data — use with caution. Common side effects from beet include red or black stools, which are harmless.

Rarely, very large amounts can theoretically lower calcium levels or damage the kidneys. During pregnancy, protease safety hasn't been established, so it's best avoided unless your doctor prescribes it.

There's little safety data for protease during breastfeeding — use isn't recommended without medical advice. We have no pregnancy or breastfeeding data on file for beet root fiber or the trace mineral blend — talk with your pharmacist or doctor about personalized advice if you're pregnant or nursing.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Proteolytic Enzymes (proteases) Beet

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 2 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Beet.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • For scale: 862 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 taking Protease Plus, double-check any medications that your liver breaks down — especially CYP3A4 substrates (statins, certain blood pressure drugs, immunosuppressants, and many others), since beet root fiber can increase their blood levels. Also check antihypertensive drugs (blood pressure medications) and CYP1A2 substrates (some antidepressants and other drugs), where beet has minor documented interactions.

Use the medication checker on this page with your exact drug names.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with no assessable stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Protease Plus may be worth considering if you're interested in digestive enzyme support and the athletic or muscle recovery potential of beet. However, if you take any medications — especially those that go through your liver (like statins, certain blood pressure drugs, or immunosuppressants) — check them against our interaction tool first.

Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk to your pharmacist before starting.

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

Assessment coverage: 2 of 3 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Oct 24, 2022.

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 Protease Plus, straight from the product label.

Brand Nature's Sunshine
Barcode (UPC) 099904018419
Net contents 90 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Oct 24, 2022
DSLD ID 278202
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years)
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 Protease Plus by Nature's Sunshine, 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:
3 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
30
UPC/BARCODE
099904018419
IngredientAmount% DV
Protease0 NP--
Proprietary Blend1500 mg--
Beet root Fiber0 NP--
Trace Mineral Blend0 NP--

Other ingredients: Capsule

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.
FDA Disclaimer Statement

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

General Statements

Bottle made from 100% post consumer recycled material. We are committed to you and our planet. Scan to learn more.

New look! Same great product

Formula

Contains trace minerals to activate enzymes This unique blend of proteolytic enzymes enhances digestion of proteins.

Precautions

Do not use if inner seal is missing or damaged.

Formulation

Digestive support Targets dietary protein digestion

Guaranteed pure

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Brand IP Statement(s)

Natures Sunshine Herbal experts since 1972

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Recommended use: Take 1 to 3 capsules with or between meals, once or twice daily.

See for yourself

Protease Plus by Nature's Sunshine label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Protease Plus by Nature's Sunshine

These are the 3 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container30 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.

Proprietary Blend

1500 mg per serving

Other (inactive) ingredients: Capsule. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Protease Plus by Nature's Sunshine Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Protease Plus?

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
861Drugs
643 Moderate 218 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Protease Plus 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.

Beet root Fiber3 drug types · 861 drugs

Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, beet might increase the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that betanin, the major pigment in beet, competitively inhibits CYP3A4 in a dose-dependent manner similarly to strong CYP3A4 inhibitor ketoconazole.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Beet and beetroot contain nitrates, which can cause vasodilation, potentially leading to lower blood pressure. However, a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition using concentrated beetroot juice found no significant impact on blood pressure or heart rate in different age groups. Other small clinical studies suggest that while beet consumption might transiently lower blood pressure due to vessel dilation, there's no consistent evidence of a lasting effect. Overall, the theoretical risk of reduced blood pressure due to beet's nitrate content exists, but studies generally indicate a low and temporary impact rather than a sustained decrease.

Likelihood Possible Evidence A
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, beet might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that beet induces CYP1A2 enzymes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Protease Plus, from the product label.

Nature's Sunshine

See all Nature's Sunshine products
Name
Nature's Sunshine Products, Inc.
City
Spanish Fork
State
UT
ZipCode
84660
Phone Number
(800) 223-8225
Web Address
www.naturessunshine.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Protease Plus by Nature's Sunshine: Common Questions

Does Protease Plus by Nature's Sunshine interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Protease Plus has a known interaction with 861 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Protease Plus contains 3 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is 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.
Will this turn my poop red?
Very likely — beet root fiber commonly causes red or black stools. It's harmless and just the color from the beet pigment passing through. If you see this, don't panic; it's expected.
Can I take this if I'm pregnant?
Protease safety hasn't been established in pregnancy, so it's best avoided unless your doctor prescribes it. We don't have pregnancy safety data on the beet root fiber either — talk with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.
Is protease safe for most people?
Yes, it's generally well tolerated in most adults. Some people may experience digestive upset, and rarely, allergic reactions can happen — especially in people sensitive to enzyme-based products.
Does beet root help with exercise performance?
The data shows beet is possibly effective for athletic performance and exercise-induced muscle soreness, so it may help — though results vary.
What's in the trace mineral blend?
We don't have detailed information on file about what specific minerals are in that blend or how much of each. Check the label or contact Nature's Sunshine directly for a full breakdown.
Is this safe to breastfeed while taking?
Protease has little safety data during breastfeeding — use isn't recommended without medical advice. We also don't have breastfeeding safety data for beet root fiber. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor before taking it while nursing.

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

Not sure if Protease Plus is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

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.

Protease Plus label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Protease Plus'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 17 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.

Proteolytic Enzymes (proteases) 3 references
  1. 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
  2. Marquès LI, Lara S, Abós T, Bartolomé B. Occupational rhinitis due to pepsin. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol. 2006;16(2):136-7. DOI
  3. 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 →

Beet 14 references
  1. Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.
  2. Clifford T, Berntzen B, Davison GW, et al. Effects of beetroot juice on recovery of muscle function and performance between bouts of repeated sprint exercise. Nutrients 2016;8. pii: E506. PubMed
  3. Siervo M, Lara J, Ogbonmwan I, Mathers JC. Inorganic nitrate and beetroot juice supplementation reduces blood pressure in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Nutr 2013;143:818-26. PubMed
  4. Clifford T, Howatson G, West DJ, Stevenson EJ. Beetroot juice is more beneficial than sodium nitrate for attenuating muscle pain after strenuous eccentric-bias exercise. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2017;42(11):1185-1191. PubMed
  5. Clifford T, Bell O, West DJ, Howatson G, Stevenson EJ. The effects of beetroot juice supplementation on indices of muscle damage following eccentric exercise. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2016;116(2):353-62. PubMed
  6. Wylie LJ, Kelly J, Bailey SJ, et al. Beetroot juice and exercise: pharmacodynamic and dose-response relationships. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2013;115(3):325-36. PubMed
  7. Garnacho-Castaño MV, Palau-Salvà G, Cuenca E, et al. Effects of a single dose of beetroot juice on cycling time trial performance at ventilatory thresholds intensity in male triathletes. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2018;15(1):49. PubMed
  8. Rasica L, Porcelli S, Marzorati M, et al. Ergogenic effects of beetroot juice supplementation during severe-intensity exercise in obese adolescents. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2018;315(3):R453-R460. PubMed
  9. Henrohn D, Björkstrand K, Lundberg JO, et al. Effects of oral supplementation with nitrate-rich beetroot juice in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension-results from BEET-PAH, an exploratory randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crosso
  10. Serra-Payá N, Garnacho-Castaño MV, Sánchez-Nuño S, et al. The relationship between resistance exercise performance and ventilatory efficiency after beetroot juice intake in well-trained athletes. Nutrients 2021;13(4):1094. PubMed
  11. Haron MH, Dale O, Martin K, et al. Evaluation of the Herb-Drug Interaction Potential of Commonly Used Botanicals on the US Market with Regard to PXR- and AhR-Mediated Influences on CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. J Diet Suppl 2022. PubMed
  12. Hemmatinafar M, Zaremoayedi L, Koushkie Jahromi M, et al. Effect of Beetroot Juice Supplementation on Muscle Soreness and Performance Recovery after Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage in Female Volleyball Players. Nutrients 2023;15(17):3763. PubMed
  13. Lim SH, Bae S, Lee HS, Han HK, Choi CI. Effect of Betanin, the Major Pigment of Red Beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.), on the Activity of Recombinant Human Cytochrome P450 Enzymes. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023;16(9):1224. PubMed
  14. Oscherwitz M, Tamayo RM, Heudebert A, Centor R. A Case of Pseudo-Hematochezia from Beet Supplement Ingestion. Am J Med 2023;136(9):e177-e178. PubMed

See these in context on the Beet 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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