Best Pancreatic Enzyme Supplements (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
Pancreatic enzyme supplements provide protease, lipase, and amylase to support the breakdown of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates when your body’s natural enzyme production falls short. These supplements can help with digestive discomfort, nutrient absorption, and overall gut health. This guide covers the most effective pancreatic enzyme products to help you find the right digestive support.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Best Overall: Vital Nutrients Pancreatic Enzymes — full-strength formula with verified USP units
- Best Premium: Pure Encapsulations Pancreatic Enzyme Formula — targeted acid-resistant delivery
- Best Value: NOW Supplements Super Enzymes — comprehensive blend with ox bile
Quick Comparison
| Product | Lipase Units | Form | Servings | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vital Nutrients Pancreatic Enzymes | 35,500 USP | Capsules | 45 | Full-strength support |
| Pure Encapsulations Pancreatic Formula | 17,500 USP | Acid-resistant capsules | 60 | Targeted delivery |
| NOW Super Enzymes | Variable blend | Capsules | 90 | Comprehensive support |
| Micrazym Pancreatic Enzymes | 25,000 USP | Enteric micropellets | 50 | High potency |
| Vita Day Digestive Enzymes | Pancreatin 4X 325mg | Capsules | 100 | Daily digestive support |
| Double Wood Digestive Enzymes | 800mg blend | Capsules | 90 | Complete enzyme blend |
| NOW Pancreatin 10X | 10X strength | Capsules | 100 | Higher potency needs |
1. Vital Nutrients Pancreatic Enzymes — Best Overall
- Premium Digestive Enzyme Supplement: Supports gut health, digestion, and bowel regularity with one easy-to-swallow capsule taken with meals. Helps support relief from occasional indigestion, gas, and bloating
- Full-Strength Pancreatic Enzymes For Humans Healthy Digestion: Lactose-free pancreatin includes protease, lipase enzymes, and amylase enzymes to support digestion and nutrient absorption from protein, fats, and carbohydrates
- Clean Formula. Hypoallergenic and Non-GMO. Made without artificial fillers, coatings, binders, or colors.
- Quality You Can Rely on: Our rigorous quality assurance program includes third-party independent laboratory testing of raw ingredients and finished products for purity and potency to ensure what’s on the label is in the bottle.
- Trusted by Healthcare Practitioners Worldwide: Vital Nutrients was founded 30 years ago by practitioners who set out to make a positive and lasting impact on the health of people and planet. Today, our premium line of clinically relevant, pure, clean-label formulas is trusted by healthcare practitioners and health-conscious consumers worldwide
Vital Nutrients delivers pharmaceutical-grade pancreatic enzymes with verified potency and purity.
This full-strength formula provides 1000mg of pancreatin per two-capsule serving, delivering 223,000 USP units of protease, 245,000 USP units of amylase, and 35,500 USP units of lipase. The supplement is lactose-free, which is particularly important since lactose fillers can aggravate digestive issues. Trusted by healthcare practitioners worldwide for 30 years, Vital Nutrients undergoes rigorous third-party testing to ensure what’s on the label matches what’s in the bottle.
What We Like
- Verified USP enzyme units for reliable potency
- Lactose-free formula prevents additional digestive irritation
- Third-party tested for purity and potency
- Trusted by medical professionals for decades
- Clean formula without artificial additives
What Could Be Better
- Requires two capsules per serving
- Premium pricing compared to generic options
Bottom Line: The pharmaceutical-grade quality and verified potency make Vital Nutrients the gold standard for pancreatic enzyme supplementation.
2. Pure Encapsulations Pancreatic Enzyme Formula — Best Premium
- Digestive Enzyme Blend for Gut Health: Contains amylase enzyme, lipase enzyme, and protease enzyme supplement to support natural digestion*
- Targeted Delivery Capsules: Acid-resistant capsules ensure enzymes for digestion—including our protease, amylase, and lipase—reach the G.I. tract*
- Concentrated Pancreatin: Each capsule provides 500 mg of pancreatin for digestive function support, strengthening gut health and aiding digestion*
- Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take 1 digestive enzymes capsule, 3 times daily, with each meal, or as directed by a health professional
- Pure Difference: What we leave out matters, too; Pure Encapsulations products are FREE FROM common allergens, artificial or unnecessary ingredients, and GMOs
Pure Encapsulations uses acid-resistant capsules to ensure enzymes reach your digestive tract intact.
Each capsule contains 500mg of concentrated pancreatin standardized to 17,500 USP units of lipase, along with protease and amylase enzymes. The acid-resistant capsule technology prevents stomach acid from destroying the enzymes before they can work, ensuring maximum effectiveness. Manufactured in NSF-GMP registered facilities, this hypoallergenic formula undergoes both in-house and independent lab testing for identity, potency, and contaminants.
What We Like
- Acid-resistant capsules for targeted delivery
- NSF-GMP certified manufacturing
- Hypoallergenic and free from common allergens
- Independent lab testing for heavy metals and contaminants
- Minimalist formula without unnecessary ingredients
What Could Be Better
- Requires three capsules daily (one per meal)
- Higher price point for the quality assurance
- Not suitable for vegetarians (porcine-derived)
Bottom Line: The acid-resistant delivery system and exceptional quality standards justify the premium price for those who want guaranteed effectiveness.
3. NOW Supplements Super Enzymes — Best Value
- Bioactive B12: Jarrow Formulas Methyl B-12 (methylcobalamin) is the biologically active form of vitamin B12; supports brain and nerve health, cellular energy production, healthy cell replication, and red blood cell production (1)
- Homocysteine Metabolism: Methyl B-12 is required for the normal metabolism of homocysteine, supporting its conversion to methionine
- Better Retained With Jarrow B12: Research suggests that methyl B-12 is better retained in the body than cyanocobalamin, and supplementation may be needed by some vegetarians and vegans (1)
- Convenient Chewable Tablet: Each naturally fruit flavored chewable tablet delivers 5000 micrograms (mcg) of methyl B-12; our B12 methylcobalamin formula does not contain wheat, gluten, soybeans, dairy, egg, fish, shellfish, or peanuts, tree nuts or sesame
- Superior Nutrition & Formulation: The goal of Jarrow Formulas is to promote optimal health with high-quality, effective, affordable, and superior formulation of dietary vitamins and supplements; our customers can be assured of purity, value & potency
NOW delivers comprehensive digestive enzyme support at an accessible price point.
This formula combines pancreatin with bromelain, ox bile, and papain for broad-spectrum digestive support. The pancreatin provides naturally occurring protease for protein digestion, amylase for carbohydrate breakdown, and lipase for fat digestion. The addition of ox bile enhances fat digestion, while bromelain and papain provide plant-based proteolytic enzymes. With 90 capsules per bottle, you get excellent value for comprehensive digestive support.
What We Like
- Comprehensive blend of animal and plant enzymes
- Includes ox bile for enhanced fat digestion
- Excellent value for the formula complexity
- 90 servings per bottle
- Soy-free, gluten-free, and keto-friendly
What Could Be Better
- Not standardized to specific USP units
- May arrive warm during summer months
- Not suitable for those avoiding animal-derived ingredients
Bottom Line: The combination of pancreatic enzymes with ox bile and plant enzymes makes this ideal for comprehensive digestive support at a budget-friendly price.
4. Micrazym Pancreatic Enzymes — Best High Potency
- ✅ ULTRA high-strength formula: 25,000 USP units of Micrazym digestive enzyme supplements containing lipase, protease, and amylase to help break down fats / lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates.
- ✅ UNIQUE: Micrazym is comprised of optimally sized (0.8–1.8mm) micropellets with an enteric coating. The enzymes are protected from from deactivation by the gastric acid, only released in the duodenum and small intestine where physiologically occur.
- ✅ HIGHEST STANDARDS: Full compliance with USP and European Pharmacopoeia on Acid Resistance, Dissolution and Stability.
- ✅ ULTRA EFFECTIVE: One capsule of Micrazym can replace up to 5-15 tablets. Convenient Intake and Cost Effective. Order Micrazym with confidence!
- ✅ PEACE OF MIND: manufactured exclusively in an FDA registered EU GMP certified facility to ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 standards so you are safeguarded by the highest standards.
Micrazym delivers ultra-high strength enzymes in an advanced micropellet delivery system.
This European formula provides 25,000 USP units of pancreatic enzymes containing lipase, protease, and amylase. The unique micropellets (0.8-1.8mm) feature enteric coating that protects enzymes from stomach acid, releasing them only in the duodenum where they naturally occur. One capsule of Micrazym can replace 5-15 tablets of standard formulas, making it highly cost-effective despite the premium positioning.
What We Like
- Ultra-high 25,000 USP unit strength
- Advanced micropellet enteric coating technology
- Complies with USP and European Pharmacopoeia standards
- One capsule replaces multiple standard tablets
- FDA registered EU GMP certified manufacturing
- Free from lactose, gluten, soy, and major allergens
What Could Be Better
- Higher price per bottle
- Only 50 capsules per container
- May be more than needed for mild digestive support
Bottom Line: The high potency and advanced delivery system make this ideal for those with significant pancreatic enzyme insufficiency or after gallbladder removal.
5. Vita Day Digestive Enzymes — Best Daily Support
![Vita Day Products Premium Digestive Enzymes Supplement [Great Digestion Aid - Bloating & Gas Relief] - Amylase, Protease & Lipase - Pancreatin 4X 325mg - 100 Capsules - Pancreatic Enzyme](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/516nx07a4vL._SL160_._SL160_.jpg)
- ♥ POWERFUL PANCREATIC ENZYMES FOR DIGESTION - HELPS THE BODY TO ABSORB KEY NUTRIENTS. Many people have enzyme deficiencies, and this digestive enzyme supplements the key natural enzymes that improves nutrient absorption.
- ♥ IMPROVES DIGESTION OF FATS, CARBOHYDRATES, DAIRY & PROTEINS FOR MEN AND WOMEN. Amalyse, Lipase & Protease Enzymes are naturally occurring pancreatic digestive enzymes that makes it easier to digest these foods. Plus, these super digestive enzymes improves the body's ability to absorb crucial nutrients with these super digestive enzymes capsules.
- ♥ BEST DIGESTIVE ENZYMES FOR YOUNG ADULTS TO SENIORS WHO WANT RELIEF FROM HEARTBURN, GAS, BLOATING, BELCHING, AND ACID REFLUX. Some people feel that these multi-enzymes nutritional supplements are the best digestive enzymes because they help the pancreas when it cannot create enough digestive enzymes in the stomach to digest foods and absorb nutrients.
- ♥ PROTEASE ENZYMES IMPROVE YOUR ENERGY. Many people feel tired all the time as a result of the partially or poorly digested foods in their digestive system. When your food is digested properly with this powerful enzyme remedies it can also improve your energy levels as well.
- ♥♥ MADE IN THE USA - Our high-quality Non-GMO Formula digestive enzymes are made in a Certified GMP, Good Manufacturing Practices, facility. We are proud of the safety, effectiveness, and quality of our ingredients and the effectiveness of this product.
Vita Day provides reliable daily digestive enzyme support with pancreatin 4X formula.
This supplement contains 325mg of pancreatin 4X, which includes the three principal digestive enzyme groups: protease for proteins, amylase for carbohydrates, and lipase for fats. The 4X concentration means the enzymes are four times more concentrated than standard pancreatin. Made in a USA GMP facility, this non-GMO formula undergoes rigorous quality screening before reaching consumers.
What We Like
- Balanced formula for everyday digestive support
- 100 capsules provide excellent value
- Flexible dosing of 1-2 capsules per meal
- Made in USA GMP facility
- Non-GMO formula
What Could Be Better
- Must not be held in mouth (can cause irritation)
- Some users may experience mild cramping initially
- Contains gelatin (not vegetarian)
Bottom Line: A solid choice for general digestive enzyme support at an accessible price point with flexible dosing options.
6. Double Wood Digestive Enzymes — Best Complete Blend
- CONTAINS ALL 10 MOST ESSENTIAL DIGESTIVE ENZYMES: No other digestive enzyme blend contains all 10 most essential digestive enzymes including Amylase, Lipase, Bromelain, Lactase, Papain, Protease, Cellulase, Maltase, Invertase, and Glucoamylase
- TOP 3 PANCREATIC ENZYMES INCLUDED: The Amylase pancreatic enzyme breaks down starches and carbohydrates into sugars. The Lipase enzyme breaks down fats and oils, into glycerol and fatty acids. Lastly, the Protease enzymes break down proteins into amino acids
- VITAZYME DIGESTIVE AID: Double Wood's trademarked digestive enzyme supplement aids digestion and supports overall digestive health. Delivering super enzymes to help with bloating relief
- BREAKDOWN PROTEIN, FATS, AND CARBOHYDRATES: Double Wood's Vitazyme blend contains the most essential digestive and pancreatic enzymes needed to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates
- WE BOTTLE WELLNESS: At Double Wood we provide pure, potent supplements that deliver exceptional value, all backed by careful sourcing and rigorous third-party testing
Double Wood’s Vitazyme formula combines all 10 essential digestive and pancreatic enzymes.
This comprehensive 800mg blend includes the three core pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase, protease) plus seven additional enzymes: bromelain, lactase, papain, cellulase, maltase, and invertase. This broad-spectrum approach ensures you can break down virtually any type of food, from proteins and fats to complex carbohydrates and dairy. The formula is backed by rigorous third-party testing for quality assurance.
What We Like
- Most comprehensive enzyme blend with 10 enzymes
- Includes lactase for dairy digestion
- Cellulase helps break down plant fibers
- Third-party tested for purity and potency
- 90 capsules per bottle
What Could Be Better
- Complex formula may not be needed for everyone
- Potential for nausea or bloating in sensitive individuals
- Requires physician approval if taking other medications
Bottom Line: The 10-enzyme formula makes this ideal for those who need comprehensive support for digesting diverse foods.
7. NOW Pancreatin 10X — Best Higher Strength
- MAGNESIUM GLYCINATE LYSINATE SUPPLEMENT: Our formula provides support for muscles, nerves, & sleep quality. It's 100% chelated, making it easy on the digestive tract & able to be taken any time of day
- MAXIMUM ABSORPTION: Magnesium glycinate is good, lysinate glycinate is even better. Our magnesium mineral supplement takes the most direct route into your system for up to 6x better absorption
- SLEEP AND MUSCLE RELAXATION: Magnesium supports healthy, restful sleep and relaxation by helping regulate melatonin, cortisol, and muscle function for overall wellness
- 200 MG PER SERVING: Our mag glycinate supplement is not buffered with fillers or additives and is 200mg per serving, vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, and soy-free. Each bottle contains 240 tablets
- DOCTOR'S BEST: Good nutrition starts with sound science. For over 35 years, we have been dedicated to providing only thoroughly researched, rigorously tested, and clinically-approved supplements
NOW’s 10X formula provides concentrated pancreatic enzyme support.
This supplement delivers 200mg of pancreatin with 10X concentration, providing naturally occurring protease for protein breakdown, amylase for carbohydrate digestion, and lipase for fat metabolism. The higher concentration means you can take fewer capsules while still getting therapeutic enzyme levels. With 100 capsules per bottle, this provides excellent long-term value.
What We Like
- 10X concentrated formula
- 100 capsules for extended supply
- Contains naturally occurring enzyme spectrum
- Good value for the concentration
- Trusted NOW Foods quality
What Could Be Better
- May be too strong for those with mild needs
- Requires careful dosing to avoid excess
Bottom Line: A concentrated option that delivers higher potency in smaller doses for those who need stronger pancreatic enzyme support.
How to Choose the Best Pancreatic Enzyme Supplement
Selecting the right pancreatic enzyme supplement requires understanding enzyme potency, delivery methods, and your specific digestive needs.
Start by looking at USP units rather than milligrams. The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) measures enzyme activity, which tells you how effectively the enzymes work, not just how much powder is in each capsule. Look for products that clearly list lipase, protease, and amylase activity in USP units. For general digestive support, you’ll want at least 10,000-20,000 USP units of lipase per dose. Those with more severe pancreatic insufficiency may need 25,000 USP units or higher.
Consider the delivery system carefully. Enteric-coated or acid-resistant capsules protect enzymes from being destroyed by stomach acid, ensuring they reach the small intestine where they work. This is particularly important for pancreatic enzymes, which are sensitive to acidic environments. Micropellet formulations offer even more sophisticated delivery, releasing enzymes gradually throughout the digestive tract. While these advanced delivery systems cost more, they significantly improve enzyme effectiveness.
Evaluate whether you need pure pancreatic enzymes or a broader formula. If your primary issue is pancreatic insufficiency or you’ve had pancreatic surgery, stick with concentrated pancreatin formulas that focus on lipase, protease, and amylase. However, if you have general digestive discomfort, formulas that combine pancreatic enzymes with plant-based enzymes like bromelain and papain, plus ox bile for fat digestion, may be more beneficial.
Check the source and quality certifications. Pancreatic enzymes are typically derived from porcine (pig) sources, which may not be suitable for everyone due to dietary or religious restrictions. Look for products manufactured in GMP-certified facilities and those with third-party testing for purity, especially testing for contaminants like heavy metals. Quality certifications from organizations like NSF or USP provide additional assurance.
Consider your specific digestive challenges. If you primarily struggle with fat digestion, prioritize high lipase formulas or those that include ox bile. For protein digestion issues, focus on higher protease content. Those with carbohydrate intolerance should look for strong amylase activity. Some formulas also include lactase for dairy digestion or cellulase for breaking down plant fibers.
Benefits of Pancreatic Enzyme Supplements
Pancreatic enzyme supplements provide essential digestive support when your body’s natural enzyme production is insufficient, offering relief from multiple digestive challenges.
The primary benefit is improved nutrient absorption. When pancreatic enzymes are deficient, you can’t properly break down the proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in your food, leading to malnutrition even when eating adequate calories. Supplementing with pancreatic enzymes ensures these macronutrients are broken into absorbable molecules — proteins into amino acids, fats into fatty acids, and carbohydrates into simple sugars. This is particularly critical after pancreatic surgery or for those with chronic pancreatitis, where enzyme deficiency directly impacts nutritional status.
Relief from digestive discomfort is another significant advantage. Undigested food in the intestines can cause bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements. When pancreatic enzymes properly break down food, there’s less material for gut bacteria to ferment, reducing gas production and bloating. Many people notice that fatty foods, which previously caused severe discomfort, become much easier to tolerate when taking lipase-rich pancreatic enzyme supplements.
Weight maintenance becomes easier with proper enzyme supplementation. People with pancreatic insufficiency often experience unintended weight loss because they’re not absorbing calories from their food. This can lead to muscle wasting and weakness. By improving fat and protein digestion, pancreatic enzymes help maintain healthy body weight and muscle mass. This is especially important for those recovering from surgery or managing chronic conditions affecting the pancreas.
Pancreatic enzyme supplements can reduce steatorrhea (fatty stools), a hallmark symptom of pancreatic insufficiency. When lipase is insufficient, undigested fats pass through the digestive system, resulting in oily, floating stools. Adequate lipase supplementation normalizes stool consistency and reduces the frequency of urgent bowel movements, significantly improving quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I take pancreatic enzyme supplements?
Take pancreatic enzyme supplements at the beginning of each meal, not before or long after eating. The enzymes need to mix with food in your stomach and small intestine to work effectively. If taking multiple capsules per meal, take one or two at the start of eating, then space the rest throughout the meal. This ensures enzymes are present as food enters your digestive tract. For snacks containing protein or fat, take a reduced dose.
How do I know if I need pancreatic enzymes?
Signs you may need pancreatic enzyme supplementation include chronic diarrhea, oily or floating stools, unexplained weight loss despite eating normally, frequent bloating and gas after meals, abdominal pain after eating, and visible undigested food in stools. These symptoms often indicate insufficient enzyme production. However, only a healthcare provider can diagnose pancreatic insufficiency through tests like fecal elastase or other pancreatic function tests.
Can I take too many pancreatic enzymes?
Yes, taking excessive pancreatic enzymes can cause side effects including nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and mouth irritation if capsules are chewed or held in the mouth. Very high doses may also interfere with iron absorption. However, when dosed appropriately, pancreatic enzymes are generally safe. Start with the recommended dose and adjust based on your digestive response and healthcare provider’s guidance. Never exceed recommended doses without medical supervision.
What’s the difference between pancreatin and pancrelipase?
Pancreatin is the general term for pancreatic enzyme preparations available as over-the-counter supplements. Pancrelipase refers to prescription-strength pancreatic enzyme products like Creon, Zenpep, and Pancreaze. Pancrelipase products are FDA-approved medications with standardized, guaranteed enzyme activity and enteric coating. They’re more potent and consistent than OTC pancreatin supplements, making them necessary for severe pancreatic insufficiency. However, they require a prescription and cost significantly more.
Do pancreatic enzymes help with IBS or SIBO?
Pancreatic enzymes may help some people with IBS or SIBO by improving food breakdown and reducing bacterial fermentation of undigested nutrients. However, they’re not a primary treatment for these conditions. For IBS, comprehensive digestive enzyme formulas combining pancreatic and plant enzymes often work better than pancreatic enzymes alone. For SIBO, treating the bacterial overgrowth is the priority, though enzymes may provide symptomatic relief. Always work with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Are plant-based enzymes better than pancreatic enzymes?
Neither is universally “better” — they serve different purposes. Plant-based enzymes (from papaya, pineapple, or fungal sources) work across a broader pH range and help with general digestive support. Pancreatic enzymes (from animal sources) more closely match human digestive enzymes and are essential for those with pancreatic insufficiency. Many comprehensive formulas combine both types for broad-spectrum support. For diagnosed pancreatic conditions, animal-derived pancreatic enzymes are typically more appropriate.
Can I take pancreatic enzymes long-term?
Yes, pancreatic enzyme supplements can be taken long-term when medically necessary. People who’ve had pancreatic surgery, those with chronic pancreatitis, or individuals with cystic fibrosis often need lifelong enzyme replacement therapy. For general digestive support without a diagnosed condition, periodic use may be sufficient. Long-term supplementation doesn’t cause dependency — your body won’t “stop making” enzymes because you’re taking supplements. However, regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended for optimal dosing.
Why do some pancreatic enzymes need to be refrigerated?
Some pancreatic enzyme products, particularly prescription formulations, require refrigeration to maintain enzyme potency and stability. Heat and moisture can degrade enzyme activity over time. However, many over-the-counter pancreatin supplements are shelf-stable when stored in cool, dry conditions. Always follow the storage instructions on your specific product. If shipping during summer months, consider choosing expedited shipping to minimize heat exposure.
