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Amylase

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

Amylase is an enzyme produced primarily by the pancreas and salivary glands, which helps in the digestion of carbohydrates by breaking down starches into sugars.

Quick summary

Amylase levels help diagnose pancreatic disorders and other conditions affecting the digestive system.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
U/L
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche Amylase, Abbott Amylase, Siemens Amylase
interpretation: {"text":"Levels above 100 U/L may indicate acute pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or gallstones blocking the pancreatic duct.","label":"High"}; {"text":"Levels below 28 U/L are uncommon but may suggest chronic pancreatitis, liver disease, or cystic fibrosis.","label":"Low"}

Amylase is a crucial enzyme in the digestive process, specifically involved in the breakdown of carbohydrates. It is mainly produced by the pancreas and salivary glands.

Elevated levels of amylase in the blood can indicate pancreatic disorders such as pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or blockage of the pancreatic duct.

On the other hand, low amylase levels are less common but can be associated with conditions like chronic pancreatitis or liver disease.

Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms of high amylase levels?
Symptoms may include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever, often indicative of pancreatitis.
Can diet affect amylase levels?
Yes, a high-carbohydrate diet can temporarily increase amylase levels, but it is not a significant factor in most cases.
  1. 1
    American Association for Clinical Chemistry: AmylaseSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic: PancreatitisSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy