Lipase

What does it do? Lipase is an enzyme that is used by the body to break down dietary fats into an absorbable form. When lipase levels are insufficient to break down dietary fats, greasy, light-colored stools ensue; this condition is called steatorrhea.

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):

Rating	Health Concerns
	Cystic fibrosis
	Indigestion (for pancreatic insufficiency only)
	Celiac disease Crohn’s disease
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient? People with pancreatic insufficiency and cystic fibrosis frequently require supplemental lipase and other enzymes. In addition, those with celiac disease¹ or Crohn’s disease² and perhaps some people suffering from indigestion³ may be deficient in pancreatic enzymes including lipase.

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.

Most preparations of lipase or other supplemental enzymes should not be taken with betaine HCl, or hydrochloric acid, which could destroy the enzymes. However, enteric-coated enzyme products are protected against destruction by stomach acid.

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.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2003.