Bromelains
Bromelains are proteolytic enzymes extracted from pineapple stems, used primarily for their anti-inflammatory and anti-edema properties. They are commonly employed in the management of acute sinusitis, soft tissue swelling, and as an adjunct in wound healing. These enzymes are also available in digestive formulations for supplemental use.
Bromelains are pineapple-derived enzymes used to reduce inflammation and swelling, support wound healing, and aid digestion.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D03BA03
- RxNorm
- 1752
- Generic
- Bromelains
- Class
- atc-d03
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule, tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if clearly needed and under medical supervision
monitor for any adverse effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid or discontinue breastfeeding
avoid use while breastfeeding due to lack of safety data
monitor infant for any adverse effects
geriatric
elderlystart with lower dose
use with caution due to increased sensitivity; monitor for GI and bleeding risks
regular assessment of GI tolerance and bleeding parameters
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children under 12avoid use
not recommended for children due to lack of safety data and potential for allergic reactions
monitor for signs of allergy and GI distress
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno specific adjustment needed
use with caution; monitor renal function
monitor renal function tests periodically
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno specific adjustment needed
use with caution; monitor liver function
monitor liver function tests periodically
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
alcohol_users
chronic alcohol useavoid combination
avoid concurrent use with alcohol due to increased bleeding risk
monitor for signs of bleeding
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
Statistics and clinical data
Regulatory classification
Bromelains are regulated as dietary supplements, not FDA-approved drugs
Supplement category
Classification as a dietary supplement containing proteolytic enzymes
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses reported in supplement form
Natural source
Natural origin of bromelain enzymes
Bromelains are used to reduce swelling and inflammation following surgery or trauma, treat acute sinusitis and rhinitis, support burn wound healing, and manage symptoms of osteoarthritis. They are also available as digestive enzyme supplements for protein digestion support.
As proteolytic enzymes, bromelains break down proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids. They exhibit anti-inflammatory effects by modulating prostaglandin synthesis and reducing vascular permeability, which helps decrease tissue swelling and pain associated with inflammatory conditions.
Bromelains may increase bleeding risk when combined with anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications. They should be discontinued prior to surgical procedures. Oral formulations may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. Cross-reactivity with pineapple allergy should be ruled out before use.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy