Trypsin
Trypsin is a proteolytic enzyme used primarily for wound debridement, helping to break down and remove dead or damaged tissue to promote healing. It is typically applied topically in clinical settings and is often used in combination with other enzymes to enhance its effectiveness in managing various types of wounds.
Trypsin is an enzyme-based wound debridement agent used to clean necrotic tissue from wounds.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- B06AA07
- RxNorm
- 10831
- Generic
- Trypsin
- Class
- atc-b06
- Brands
- Optase
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- unknown
- Half-life (h)
- 0
- Onset (min)
- 0
- Duration (h)
- 0
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- ointment, gel, powder
- Regions
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia
- Monitoring
- wound healing progress, local irritation, hypersensitivity, signs of infection
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.
Used for enzymatic wound debridement to remove necrotic (dead) tissue in chronic wounds, burns, ulcers, and surgical wounds. May be used in combination with other enzymes like chymotrypsin for enhanced debridement action.
As a protease enzyme, trypsin breaks down proteins in necrotic tissue by hydrolyzing peptide bonds. This enzymatic action liquefies dead tissue, allowing for easier removal and promotion of granulation tissue formation.
For topical use only. Avoid contact with eyes. Should not be used on viable tissue. Use with caution in patients with bleeding disorders. Effectiveness may be reduced in wounds with limited blood supply. May cause local irritation at application site.
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 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy