Danzen Tablet 5mg Tablets

Serratiopeptidase, also called serrapeptase, is a proteolytic enzyme (an enzyme that breaks down proteins). Health Canada lists these uses for it:

• helping reduce swelling and pain, such as cheek swelling after dental surgery
• helping break down mucus
• easing symptoms such as stuffiness, discharge and loss of smell with ear, nose and throat infections

The evidence is limited. Singapore's regulator decided in 2011 that newer trials did not show a clear benefit over a dummy tablet and stopped registering it as a medicine.

Take it as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, or as the pack says.

• It is usually taken about 2 hours after a meal.
• Swallow the coated (gastro-resistant) tablet or capsule whole, so the enzyme is not damaged by stomach acid.
• Ask a doctor before using it for longer than 7 days for swelling and pain.
• See a doctor if your symptoms continue or get worse.

Side effects are not well described in official sources.

Stop taking it and get medical help straight away if you have:

• a rash
• difficulty breathing
• any other sign of an allergic reaction

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• have a stomach or gut ulcer
• have kidney or liver problems
• are going to have surgery
• take blood thinners or anti-inflammatory medicines
• are pregnant or breastfeeding

It is meant for adults.

Store as the label on your product says, and keep out of the reach of children.

Not a replacement for treatment: it does not treat infection. If you have an infection, painful swelling or a fever, see a doctor.

Bleeding risk: ask first if you take blood thinners or are having surgery.