Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapples that has been used as a dietary supplement for treatment of a variety of conditions. It may help reduce swelling and inflammation as well as improve digestive health and prevent muscle soreness after exercise, among many other potential benefits. As with all dietary supplements, bromelain should only be used after consulting with a doctor, as it may cause side effects and negatively interact with certain medications.
Side Effects
Taking bromelain supplements may cause unwanted side effects in certain individuals. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends limiting use of a bromelain supplement to no more than eight to 10 consecutive days. The most commonly reported side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach discomfort. Women may experience an increase in menstrual bleeding. The National Cancer Society states that healthcare providers may caution against taking bromelain if you have high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease or a bleeding disorder.
Drug Interactions
Bromelain may interact with several different types of prescription medications. It may increase the amount of antibiotics -- such as amoxicillin -- absorbed by your body, leading to unwanted side effects. Bromelain may also interact with your body's blood-clotting mechanisms and thereby interfere with blood-thinning medications or drugs to prevent blood clots, called anticoagulants. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, bromelain may increase the effects of medications or drugs that have a sedative effect, such as barbiturates, benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants or anti-seizure medications, tricyclic antidepressants, insomnia medications and alcohol. This can cause excessive drowsiness, among other symptoms, which may affect an individual's ability to drive or operate machinery.
Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to bromelain may occur in individuals, manifesting as skin or breathing problems. Individuals allergic to bromelain or pineapple should not take bromelain supplements. Individuals allergic to wheat, celery, carrots, cypress and grass pollen, papain and fennel are at an increased risk of having an allergic reaction to bromelain, according to MedlinePlus.
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