By Dr. Rita Fabbri
Contraindications, special warnings and appropriate precautions for use, undesirable effects
For pineapple, we have no clinical studies conducted on pregnant and lactating women; in these cases it is therefore advisable to inform the doctor before taking products that contain it. Pineapple-based preparations are contraindicated in subjects with peptic ulcer and in patients on anticoagulant therapy. Bromelain may increase the absorption of tetracyclines and amoxicillin:
- In a double-blind study in 127 patients, bromelain significantly increased serum levels of amoxicillin compared to the control group treated with amoxicillin and placebo. In addition, significantly higher tissue levels of amoxicillin were found in the bromelain group.
Similar results for both amoxicillin and tetracyclines were reported in a placebo-controlled study in 54 patients treated with bromelain.
Although no significant side effects are known, allergic reactions may occur in sensitive or occupationally exposed individuals (60-61). Other possible reactions, even if not confirmed, include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding and menorrhagia.
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