Lipase

Also known as lipase enzyme.

Last reviewed October 9, 2026 · Jump to references

What is Lipase?

In plain words

Lipase is an enzyme, a protein that helps break down fats in food. Your pancreas makes it and releases it into the small intestine, where it breaks fat into smaller parts your body can absorb. Researchers study lipase for fat digestion and for replacing enzymes when the pancreas does not make enough. Prescription enzyme replacements have established uses, but that evidence does not apply to every lipase supplement.

Technical definition

Lipases are protein enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of ester bonds in fats; human pancreatic lipase primarily converts dietary triglycerides into free fatty acids and monoglycerides in the small intestine. They act directly on lipid substrates rather than through receptors, and supplemental lipases can come from animal or microbial sources. In the United States, lipase is a component of FDA-approved prescription pancreatic enzyme products, while dietary supplements containing lipase are not FDA-approved for safety and effectiveness before marketing.

Educational information only. This page does not provide medical advice or determine whether a supplement is appropriate for you. Review supplements with a qualified healthcare professional, especially if you take medication, are pregnant, have surgery scheduled, or have a chronic medical condition.

Evidence by use

Each use is rated on its own. There is no single overall effectiveness score.