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Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board

Bromelain

MODERATE EVIDENCESupplementLast updated April 2026

SCAN DOSE SUMMARY

Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme complex from pineapple stems with evidence for surgical swelling/bruising reduction, sinusitis, and osteoarthritis pain. Our research identifies it as a legitimate anti-inflammatory enzyme — but bioavailability is low and it interacts significantly with blood thinners.

EVIDENCE GRADES

Post-surgical swelling/bruisingModerate — multiple surgical trials (PMID: 11185341)
B
Sinusitis (adjunct)Moderate — improves mucociliary clearance
B-
OsteoarthritisLimited trials
C+
Muscle soreness (DOMS)Preliminary
C
Digestive supportTraditional use; limited clinical data
C

OPTIMAL DOSAGE

  • Anti-inflammatory: 500-2,000mg/day in divided doses
  • Post-surgical: 500mg 3x/day starting 3 days before surgery
  • Sinusitis: 500-1,000mg/day
  • Measured in GDU (gelatin dissolving units) — higher GDU = more enzymatic activity
  • Take on empty stomach for systemic effects; with food for digestive support
Scan a supplement containing Bromelain

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Anticoagulants (warfarin, heparin)Severe

Bromelain has antiplatelet/fibrinolytic activity — additive bleeding risk

AspirinModerate

Additive antiplatelet effects

Antibiotics (amoxicillin, tetracycline)Moderate

Bromelain may increase antibiotic tissue levels

SedativesMinor

May potentiate sedative effects

SAFETY PROFILE

Drug Interactions

Pregnancy & Lactation

  • Insufficient data. May stimulate uterine contractions at high doses. Avoid.

WADA Status

Not Prohibited

CLINICAL REFERENCES

1.

Maurer HR. Bromelain: biochemistry, pharmacology and medical use.

PMID: 11185341

2.

Brien S et al. Bromelain as treatment for osteoarthritis.

PMID: 16304621

RELATED RESEARCH

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Scan Your Bromelain SupplementBrowse all ingredients

Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board | Last updated: April 2026

Not medical advice. Based on published clinical research and systematic reviews.

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