Also indexed as: Fat-Digesting Enzyme
Lipase is an enzyme that is used by the
body to break down dietary fats into an
absorbable form.
Where is it found?
Most of the body’s lipase is manufactured in the pancreas, although some of it is
secreted in the saliva, as well. Pancreatin contains lipase along with two other groups of enzymes: proteases and amylase.
Lipase has been used in
connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual
health concern for complete information):
How much is usually taken?
Products that contain lipase also usually contain other enzymes that help digest carbohydrates and protein. In
the U.S., pancreatin, which contains lipase, amylase, and proteases, is rated against a
government standard. For example, “9X pancreatin” is nine times stronger than the
government standard. Each “X” contains 25 USP units of amylase, 2 USP units of
lipase, and 25 USP units of proteolytic enzymes. Taking 1.5 grams of 9X pancreatin (or a
higher amount at lower potencies) with each meal can help people with pancreatic insufficiency
digest food.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Lipase does not generally cause any side effects at the amounts listed above.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions
with lipase.
References:1. Patel RS, Johlin FC Jr, Murray JA. Celiac disease and recurrent
pancreatitis. Gastrointest Endosc 1999;50:823–7.
2. Hegnhoj J, Hansen CP, Rannem T, et al. Pancreatic function in
Crohn’s disease. Gut 1990;31:1076–9.
3. Suarez F, Levitt MD, Adshead J, Barkin JS. Pancreatic supplements
reduce symptomatic response of healthy subjects to a high fat meal. Dig Dis Sci
1999;44:1317–21.