Major interaction on record — check this product against your medications before combining. Based on 7 of 13 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Zygest Multi-Enzyme Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Vitamin World

Tablet Or Pill Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Major
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Major

Zygest Multi-Enzyme is a dietary supplement by Vitamin World with 13 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for bone health and osteoporosis prevention, dietary calcium deficiency, heartburn relief (calcium carbonate antacids).Based on those ingredients, 995 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Peppermint Oil, Calcium, Bromelain. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Zygest Multi-Enzyme by Vitamin World

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 13 of its 13 active ingredients.
  • “Zygest Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (425 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Zygest Multi-Enzyme contains 13 ingredients, six of which are the active enzymes and micronutrients. Calcium supports bone health and is documented as effective for osteoporosis and several other conditions.

Betaine hydrochloride boosts stomach acid to aid digestion. Bromelain, papain, and pepsin are protein-digesting enzymes (proteases); pancreatin blends multiple digestive enzymes; lipase breaks down fats; cellulase breaks down plant fiber; and amylase breaks down starches.

Peppermint oil supports digestive comfort, chiefly for irritable bowel syndrome. The remaining ingredients—phosphorus, ox bile, and the proprietary Zygest Blend—complete the formula.

The product also contains inactive ingredients including dicalcium phosphate, vegetable cellulose, stearic acid, and minor additives.

Does it work?

Strong evidence
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
Strong

Clinical evidence supports at least one of this product's ingredients for its stated purpose.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: digestive aid for proteins, fats and carbohydrates.
  • We looked for evidence on: Dyspepsia, Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bloating, gas, indigestion.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Calcium is rated "Effective" for Dyspepsia (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Peppermint is rated "Likely Effective" for Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
  • Also on file: Peppermint is rated "Possibly Effective" for Dyspepsia.

Calcium in this product is documented as effective for osteoporosis and likely effective for preventing bone loss and maintaining kidney function. Peppermint oil is likely effective for irritable bowel syndrome and possibly effective for indigestion and chemotherapy-related nausea.

However, the evidence for betaine hydrochloride, bromelain, pepsin, protease, lipase, and pancreatin is insufficient to rate them reliably. We hold no effectiveness data for the other ingredients.

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 7 of the 7 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 7 of 7.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 7 of 7.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Calcium is generally well tolerated at recommended doses, though high amounts can cause constipation, diarrhea, or stomach upset. Adequate calcium is important in pregnancy and breastfeeding; stay within recommended amounts unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Betaine hydrochloride may irritate the stomach and is unsafe for people with ulcers or gastritis; avoid it in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Papain and bromelain are concentrated supplements best avoided in pregnancy; papain may trigger allergic reactions, and bromelain's long-term safety is not well studied.

Peppermint oil (the culinary amount in tea) is likely safe in pregnancy, but concentrated supplements should be checked with your provider first. Pepsin and protease may cause digestive upset or allergic reactions and should be avoided in pregnancy without a doctor's approval.

Lipase is generally well tolerated but use only under medical guidance if you have serious digestive conditions.

Meds to double-check

Major interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Major identified

At least one ingredient has a documented Major-severity interaction. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 5 of the 7 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Papain, Betaine Hydrochloride, Peppermint, Calcium, Bromelain.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; heart-rhythm medications; lithium.
  • For scale: 996 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 this product, check your medications against these types: HIV integrase inhibitors and the antibiotic ceftriaxone (calcium interaction, Major severity); thyroid hormones, heart rhythms drugs, and psoriasis treatments (calcium, Moderate); blood thinners and antiplatelet drugs like warfarin and aspirin (papain and bromelain, Moderate); enzyme-metabolizing drugs including certain antidepressants and heart medications (peppermint CYP inhibitors, Moderate); and acid-reflux medications including H2-blockers and PPIs (betaine, Minor). Use the medication checker on this page with your exact drugs.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with clinical evidence supporting its stated purpose. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

This multi-enzyme digestive supplement may help with indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome, chiefly thanks to peppermint oil and calcium. However, if you take any HIV medications (especially dolutegravir or elvitegravir), levothyroxine, warfarin, sotalol, or cyclosporine, check with your pharmacist first—calcium and peppermint can significantly affect how these work.

If you have active ulcers, acid reflux, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting.

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

Assessment coverage: 8 of 13 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Nov 25, 2011.

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 Zygest Multi-Enzyme, straight from the product label.

Brand Vitamin World
Barcode (UPC) 766443103325
Net contents 100 Easy To Swallow Coated Tablet(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Nov 25, 2011
DSLD ID 1860
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Tablet Or Pill
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 Zygest Multi-Enzyme by Vitamin World, 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:
2 Tablet(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
2 Tablet(s)
Servings per container
50
UPC/BARCODE
766443103325
IngredientAmount% DV
Phosphorus109 mg11%
Calcium141 mg14%
Betaine Hydrochloride100 mg--
Amylase50 mg--
Papain25 mg--
Bromelain25 mg--
Lipase10 mg--
Cellulase5 mg--
Peppermint Oil20 mg--
Pepsin25 mg--
Pancreatin100 mg--
Ox Bile15 mg--
Protease50 mg--
Zygest Blend425 mg--

Other ingredients: Dicalcium Phosphate, Vegetable Cellulose, Stearic Acid, Contains <2% of

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 Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

DIRECTIONS: For adults, take two (2) tablets before or after meals.

Precautions

Keep out of reach of children.

WARNING: If you are pregnant, nursing or taking any medications, consult your doctor before use.

Contains milk and wheat ingredients.

Discontinue use and consult your doctor if any adverse reactions occur.

Do not use if seal under cap is broken or missing.

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.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

General

PROD. #10332 B12553 08F

General Statements

Digestive Aid for Proteins, Fats & Carbohydrates*

Full Spectrum FORMULA

This product contains natural enzymes that sometimes have a distinctive odor.

Vitamin World products are subject to critically stringent quality assurance analysis. Our state-of-the-art laboratory, manufacturing and packaging facilities insure the highest quality nutritional supplements money can buy. Your health & safety are our first priority!

Get healthy. Digestive Care

Brand IP Statement(s)

©2010 Vitamin World, Inc.

Zygest(R) Multi-Enzyme is a specialized formula containing a full spectrum of protein, fat and carbohydrate digestive enzymes for complete nutritional care.* These enzymes work synergistically with your body's digestive system to support proper nutrient breakdown before or after meals.*

Formulation

No Artificial Color, Flavor or Sweetener, No Preservatives, No Sugar, No Soy, No Yeast, No Fish. Sodium Free.

Seals/Symbols

QUALITY ASSURED

See for yourself

Zygest Multi-Enzyme by Vitamin World label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Zygest Multi-Enzyme by Vitamin World

These are the 13 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size2 Tablet(s) Dosage formTablet Or Pill Servings per container50 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.

Phosphorus

109 mg per serving

Calcium

Interacts with
168 drugs
141 mg per serving

Calcium is an essential mineral your body needs for strong bones, nerve signaling, and muscle function, and supplements can help fill gaps when diet f...

Calcium monograph & interactions

Zygest Blend

425 mg per serving

Other (inactive) ingredients: Dicalcium Phosphate, Vegetable Cellulose, Stearic Acid, Contains <2% of. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Zygest Multi-Enzyme by Vitamin World Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Zygest Multi-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 checker
995Drugs
7 Major 917 Moderate 71 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Calcium 168
Bromelain 141
Papain 2

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Zygest Multi-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.

Peppermint Oil5 drug types · 796 drugs

Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Theoretically, peppermint oil might increase the levels and adverse effects of cyclosporine.
In animal research, peppermint oil inhibits cyclosporine metabolism and increases cyclosporine levels. Inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) may be partially responsible for this interaction. An interaction between peppermint oil and cyclosporine has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates

Theoretically, peppermint might increase the levels of CYP2C19 substrates.
In vitro research shows that peppermint oil inhibits CYP2C19. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates

Theoretically, peppermint might increase the levels of CYP2C9 substrates.
In vitro research shows that peppermint oil inhibits CYP2C9. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, peppermint might increase the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.
Clinical research in healthy volunteers shows that a single dose of peppermint oil 600 mg inhibits CYP3A4 enzymes and increases the AUC of felodipine, a CYP3A4 substrate. However, in vitro research suggests that peppermint oil only inhibits CYP3A4 at very high concentrations.

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

Theoretically, peppermint might increase the levels of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro and animal research shows that peppermint oil and peppermint leaf inhibit CYP1A2. However, in clinical research, peppermint tea did not significantly affect the metabolism of caffeine, a CYP1A2 substrate. It is possible that the 6-day duration of treatment may have been too short to identify a difference.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B

Calcium18 drug types · 168 drugs

Ceftriaxone (Rocephin)

Co-administration of intravenous calcium and ceftriaxone can result in precipitation of a ceftriaxone-calcium salt in the lungs and kidneys.
Avoid administering intravenous calcium in any form, such as parenteral nutrition or Lactated Ringers, within 48 hours of intravenous ceftriaxone. Case reports in neonates show that administering intravenous ceftriaxone and calcium can result in precipitation of a ceftriaxone-calcium salt in the lungs and kidneys. In several cases, neonates have died as a result of this interaction. So far there are no reports in adults; however, there is still concern that this interaction might occur in adults.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Dolutegravir (Tivicay)

Calcium seems to reduce levels of dolutegravir.
Advise patients to take dolutegravir either 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking calcium supplements. Pharmacokinetic research suggests that taking calcium carbonate 1200 mg concomitantly with dolutegravir 50 mg reduces plasma levels of dolutegravir by almost 40%. Calcium appears to decrease levels of dolutegravir through chelation.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Elvitegravir (Vitekta)

Calcium seems to reduce levels of elvitegravir.
Advise patients to take elvitegravir either 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking calcium supplements. Pharmacokinetic research suggests that taking calcium along with elvitegravir can reduce blood levels of elvitegravir through chelation.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Aluminum

Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity. Other types of calcium do not increase aluminum absorption.
Calcium citrate can increase the absorption of aluminum when taken with aluminum hydroxide. The increase in aluminum levels may become toxic, particularly in individuals with kidney disease. However, the effect of calcium citrate on aluminum absorption is due to the citrate anion rather than calcium cation. Calcium acetate does not appear to increase aluminum absorption.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (Biktarvy)

Calcium might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption when taken in a fasting state.
Advise patients that bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide and calcium can be taken together if taken with food. However, if taken on an empty stomach, bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide should not be taken with, or 2 hours after, calcium containing products.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Bisphosphonates

Calcium reduces the absorption of bisphosphonates.
Advise patients to take bisphosphonates at least 30 minutes before calcium, but preferably at a different time of day. Calcium supplements decrease absorption of bisphosphonates.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Calcipotriene (Dovonex)

Taking calcipotriene with calcium might increase the risk for hypercalcemia.
Calcipotriene is a vitamin D analog used topically for psoriasis. It can be absorbed in sufficient amounts to cause systemic effects, including hypercalcemia. Theoretically, combining calcipotriene with calcium supplements might increase the risk of hypercalcemia.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Using intravenous calcium with digoxin might increase the risk of fatal cardiac arrhythmias.
Hypercalcemia increases the risk of fatal cardiac arrhythmias with digoxin. However, one retrospective analysis of clinical data suggests that intravenous calcium does not increase the risk of dysrhythmias or mortality in patients receiving digoxin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Diltiazem (Cardizem, Others)

Theoretically, calcium may reduce the therapeutic effects of diltiazem.
Hypercalcemia can reduce the effectiveness of verapamil in atrial fibrillation. Theoretically, calcium might increase this risk of hypercalcemia and reduce the effectiveness of diltiazem.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)

Calcium seems to reduce the absorption and effectiveness of levothyroxine.
Advise patients to take levothyroxine and calcium supplements at least 4 hours apart. Calcium reduces levothyroxine absorption, probably by forming insoluble complexes. Calcium carbonate supplements reduce effectiveness of levothyroxine in patients with hypothyroidism.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Lithium

Theoretically, concomitant use of calcium and lithium may increase this risk of hypercalcemia.
Clinical research suggests that long-term use of lithium may cause hypercalcemia in 10% to 60% of patients. Theoretically, concomitant use of lithium and calcium supplements may further increase this risk.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Quinolone Antibiotics

Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of quinolone antibiotics.
Advise patients to take oral quinolones at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium supplements or calcium-fortified foods. Taking calcium at the same time as oral quinolones can reduce quinolone absorption. Calcium binds to quinolones in the gut.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Raltegravir (Isentress)

Calcium may reduce levels of raltegravir.
Pharmacokinetic research shows that taking a single dose of calcium carbonate 3000 mg along with raltegravir 400 mg twice daily modestly decreases the mean area under the curve of raltegravir, but the decrease does not necessitate a dose adjustment of raltegravir. However, a case of elevated HIV-1 RNA levels and documented resistance to raltegravir has been reported for a patient taking calcium carbonate 1 gram three times daily plus vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) 400 IU three times daily in combination with raltegravir 400 mg twice daily for 11 months. It is thought that calcium reduced raltegravir levels by chelation, leading to treatment failure.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Sotalol (Betapace)

Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of sotalol.
Advise patients to separate doses by at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium. Calcium appears to reduce the absorption of sotalol, probably by forming insoluble complexes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Tetracycline Antibiotics

Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics.
Advise patients to take oral tetracyclines at least 2 hours before, or 4-6 hours after calcium supplements. Taking calcium at the same time as oral tetracyclines can reduce tetracycline absorption. Calcium binds to tetracyclines in the gut.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Thiazide Diuretics

Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Thiazides reduce calcium excretion by the kidneys. Using thiazides along with moderately large amounts of calcium carbonate increases the risk of milk-alkali syndrome (hypercalcemia, metabolic alkalosis, renal failure). Patients may need to have their serum calcium levels and/or parathyroid function monitored regularly.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Verapamil (Calan, Others)

Theoretically, calcium may reduce the therapeutic effects of verapamil.
Hypercalcemia can reduce the effectiveness of verapamil in atrial fibrillation. Theoretically, use of calcium supplements may increase this risk of hypercalcemia and reduce the effectiveness of verapamil.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Calcium Channel Blockers

Intravenous calcium may decrease the effects of calcium channel blockers; oral calcium is unlikely to have this effect.
Intravenous calcium is used to decrease the effects of calcium channel blockers in the management of overdose. Intravenous calcium gluconate has been used before intravenous verapamil (Isoptin) to prevent or reduce the hypotensive effects without affecting the antiarrhythmic effects. But there is no evidence that dietary or supplemental calcium when taken orally interacts with calcium channel blockers.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D

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

Betaine Hydrochloride3 drug types · 36 drugs

Antacids

Betaine hydrochloride increases stomach acidity and could decrease the effects of antacids.
In human research, betaine hydrochloride increases stomach acidity. Antacids are taken to decrease stomach acidity. Theoretically, taking betaine hydrochloride along with antacids might decrease the effects of the antacids.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
H2-Blockers

Betaine hydrochloride increases stomach acidity and could decrease the effects of H2-blockers.
In human research, betaine hydrochloride increases stomach acidity. H2-blockers are used to decrease stomach acidity. Theoretically, taking betaine hydrochloride along with H2-blockers might decrease the effects of H2-blockers.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Proton Pump Inhibitors (Ppis)

Betaine hydrochloride increases stomach acidity and could decrease the effects of PPIs.
In human research, betaine hydrochloride increases stomach acidity. PPIs are used to decrease stomach acidity. Theoretically, taking betaine hydrochloride along with PPIs might decrease the effects of PPIs

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Papain1 drug type · 2 drugs

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.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Zygest Multi-Enzyme, from the product label.

Vitamin World

See all Vitamin World products
Phone Number
1-800-228-4533
Web Address
www.vitaminworld.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Zygest Multi-Enzyme by Vitamin World: Common Questions

Does Zygest Multi-Enzyme by Vitamin World interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Zygest Multi-Enzyme has a known interaction with 995 medications, including 7 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Zygest Multi-Enzyme contains 13 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.
Can I take this if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Calcium is safe in pregnancy at recommended doses and supports bone health. However, betaine hydrochloride should be avoided in pregnancy, and papain and bromelain (concentrated forms) are best avoided too—talk to your doctor before using. Breastfeeding: calcium and peppermint are generally fine at recommended amounts, but betaine, papain, and bromelain aren't well studied, so check with your provider first.
What are these enzymes actually for?
They're meant to help you digest food. Bromelain, papain, pepsin, and protease break down protein; lipase breaks down fat; amylase breaks down carbohydrates; cellulase helps with plant fiber. Ox bile helps your body absorb fats. Together they're designed to ease indigestion and support overall digestion.
Does this work for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
Peppermint oil in the formula is documented as likely effective for IBS. The other enzymes don't have reliable evidence for IBS specifically, though they may help with general digestive comfort.
Will this cause any side effects?
Most people tolerate these enzymes well. The most common side effects are mild—belching, constipation or diarrhea, and stomach upset. Betaine hydrochloride may cause more irritation and heartburn, especially if you have sensitive digestion. Rare allergic reactions to papain and bromelain can occur in sensitive individuals.
Can I take this with my acid-reflux medication?
No, not reliably. Betaine hydrochloride in this product increases stomach acid, which can work against H2-blockers, antacids, and PPIs (like omeprazole). Talk to your pharmacist—you may need to separate doses or skip this product.
Is this safe if I have kidney problems?
Calcium is effective for kidney failure according to the data we hold, but the high calcium content could be a concern depending on your specific condition and kidney function. Check with your nephrologist or pharmacist before starting.

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

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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.

Zygest Multi-Enzyme label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Zygest Multi-Enzyme’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Herb & supplement monograph

Calcium

Interacts with 168 drugs

Calcium is an essential mineral your body needs for strong bones, nerve signaling, and muscle function, and supplements can help fill gaps when diet falls short. Most people do best getting...

Read the full Calcium monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Betaine Hydrochloride

Interacts with 36 drugs

Betaine hydrochloride is a supplement used to temporarily increase stomach acid in people who may have low acid levels. Evidence for its benefits is limited and mostly based on tradition rat...

Read the full Betaine Hydrochloride monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Papain

Interacts with 2 drugs

Papain 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 monograph

Bromelain

Interacts with 141 drugs

Bromelain 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 monograph

Lipase

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 monograph

Peppermint

Interacts with 796 drugs

Peppermint is a popular herb with the best evidence supporting enteric-coated peppermint oil for easing IBS symptoms. It is generally well tolerated for most adults, but it can cause heartbu...

Read the full Peppermint monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Proteolytic 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 →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Zygest Multi-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.

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 139 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.

Calcium 62 references
  1. Shils M, Olson A, Shike M. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lea and Febiger, 1994.
  2. Hernandez-Avila M, Gonzalez-Cossio T, Hernandez-Avila JE, et al. Dietary calcium supplements to lower blood lead levels in lactating women: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Epidemiology 2003;14:206-12.. PubMed
  3. Thys-Jacobs S, Ceccarelli S, Bierman A, et al. Calcium supplementation in premenstrual syndrome: a randomized crossover trial. J Gen Intern Med 1989;4:183-9. PubMed
  4. Maton PN, Burton ME. Antacids revisited: a review of their clinical pharmacology and recommended therapeutic use. Drugs 1999;57:855-70.
  5. Clemens JD, Feinstein AR. Calcium carbonate and constipation: a historical review of medical mythopoeia. Gastroenterology 1977;72:957-61. DOI
  6. Saunders D, Sillery J, Chapman R. Effect of calcium carbonate and aluminum hydroxide on human intestinal function. Dig Dis Sci 1988;33:409-13. PubMed
  7. Friedman PA, Bushinsky DA. Diuretic effects on calcium metabolism. Semin Nephrol 1999;19:551-6.
  8. Koo WK, Walters JC, Esterlitz J, et al. Maternal calcium supplementation and fetal bone mineralization. Obstet Gynecol 1999;94:577-82. DOI
  9. Raman L, Rajalakshmi K, Krishnamachari KAVR, et al. Effect of calcium supplementation to undernourished mothers during pregnancy on the bone density of the neonates. Am J Clin Nutr 1978; 31:466-9. DOI
  10. Murry JJ, Healy MD. Drug-mineral interactions: a new responsibility for the hospital dietician. J Am Diet Assoc 1991;91:66-73.
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Proteolytic Enzymes (proteases) 3 references
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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.

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