What Is Serrapeptase? Other Names: Butterfly Enzyme, Enzyme de Ver de Soie, SER

What is Serrapeptase?

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Serrapeptase, also known as serratiopeptidase, is a proteolytic enzyme originally derived from the silkworm. It is known for its ability to break down proteins into smaller components, which can be beneficial in various medical applications. Other names include: Butterfly Enzyme, Enzyme de Ver de Soie, Extrait de Ver de Soie, SER, Serratia peptidase, Serrapeptidase, Serratiopeptidase, Silk Worm Enzyme, Silkworm Extract.

Medical Applications of Serrapeptase

Postoperative Swelling and Pain Reduction

Serrapeptase has been studied for its effectiveness in reducing postoperative swelling and pain. In a study involving the surgical extraction of mandibular third molars, serrapeptase significantly reduced cheek swelling and pain intensity compared to a placebo, although it did not affect the maximum interincisal distance1. Similarly, another study demonstrated that serrapeptase effectively reduced swelling and pain following ankle surgery, outperforming traditional conservative measures like ice application3.

Treatment of Secretory Otitis Media

Serrapeptase has also been evaluated for its efficacy in treating secretory otitis media. In a comparative study with glucocorticoid treatment, serrapeptase showed similar initial efficacy and safety but was superior in overall therapeutic effect over a longer period2.

Neuroinflammation and Alzheimer’s Disease

Research has explored the potential of serrapeptase in mitigating neuroinflammation and apoptosis associated with Alzheimer’s disease. In an experimental model, serrapeptase, along with nattokinase, showed protective effects against neurodegenerative changes, suggesting its potential role in managing Alzheimer’s disease4.

Clinical Trials and Efficacy

A multi-centre, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the efficacy of serrapeptase in reducing buccal swelling after Caldwell-Luc antrotomy for chronic empyema. The study found that patients treated with serrapeptase experienced significantly less swelling compared to those given a placebo, with no reported side effects5.

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Adverse Effects of Serrapeptase

General Safety: Several studies have found serrapeptase to be safe with low rates of adverse reactions. In a study evaluating its use as an expectorant, adverse reaction rates were 3% and 4% in the trial and control groups, respectively, showing no significant difference3. Similarly, in treating secretory otitis media, the incidence of adverse reactions was 3.6%, comparable to the control group4.

Specific Studies: In trials involving the treatment of breast engorgement and post-antrotomy buccal swelling, no adverse reactions were reported, indicating a favorable safety profile5 6.

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How has Serrapeptase Improved Patient Outcomes?

Postoperative Swelling and Pain Reduction

Dental Surgery: Serrapeptase has been shown to significantly reduce postoperative swelling and pain after the surgical extraction of mandibular third molars. Patients receiving serrapeptase experienced less cheek swelling and pain compared to those given a placebo, although there was no significant difference in trismus (jaw movement restriction)1 2 3.

Ankle Surgery: In cases of ankle surgery, serrapeptase reduced swelling by 50% on the third postoperative day, which was significantly better than traditional methods like ice application. This reduction in swelling was correlated with decreased pain4.

Breast Engorgement: Serrapeptase was effective in reducing breast pain, swelling, and induration in patients with breast engorgement, showing a marked improvement compared to placebo5.

Inflammatory Conditions

Chronic Sinusitis: Serrapeptase improved the treatment outcomes for chronic sinusitis by reducing inflammatory purulent secretion and enhancing membrane epithelization in the sinus9.

Secretory Otitis Media: It showed similar efficacy to glucocorticoids in treating secretory otitis media, with a superior overall therapeutic effect over time7.

Other Applications

Endodontic Pain: Serrapeptase was effective in reducing interappointment pain in patients undergoing root canal therapy, indicating its potential in managing dental pain10.

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Serrapeptase Mechanisms of Action

Reduction of Swelling and Pain: Serrapeptase effectively reduces postoperative swelling and pain by breaking down inflammatory proteins. This action was observed in studies where patients experienced significant reductions in swelling and pain after surgeries, such as third molar extractions and ankle surgeries, when treated with serrapeptase compared to placebo or traditional methods like ice application1 2 3.

Anti-inflammatory Effects: The enzyme’s ability to decrease inflammation is attributed to its proteolytic activity, which helps in the breakdown of protein-based inflammatory mediators. This leads to a faster reduction in swelling and associated pain, as demonstrated in various clinical trials1 2 3.

Clinical Efficacy

Postoperative Applications: Serrapeptase has been shown to be effective in reducing postoperative swelling and pain in different surgical contexts, including dental surgeries and orthopedic procedures. Patients treated with serrapeptase reported less swelling and pain compared to those receiving placebo or other conservative treatments1 2 3.

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Common Complaints Associated with Serrapeptase Use

Gastrointestinal Issues: Although not explicitly mentioned in the provided study, common side effects of enzyme supplements like serrapeptase can include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach upset. These are typical complaints associated with many oral enzyme supplements.

Allergic Reactions: As with any supplement, there is a potential for allergic reactions, which may manifest as skin rashes, itching, or more severe symptoms in sensitive individuals.

Bleeding Risks: Serrapeptase may affect blood clotting, so there is a theoretical risk of increased bleeding, especially in individuals taking anticoagulant medications. This is a common concern with proteolytic enzymes.

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Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please seek immediate attention from a healthcare provider.