Trypsin Therapy in Pulmonary Diseases, 1955-1960

Trypsin in sesame oil was effective in cases in which it was tolerated. In many patients, the local pain and induration at the injection site was severe enough to discontinue treatment.

Trypsin in buccal tablets produced soreness and in some cases ulcerations of the mouth severe enough to warrant complaints. Clinical response was minimal, producing less tenacious sputum and easier expectoration.

Trypsin aqueous gave fewer side effects and was rather well tolerated by most of the patients. This preparation did liquefy bronchial secretions and loosened bronchial plugs.

The newest pharmaceutical form of trypsin—enteric coated for oral administration—was clinically effective in pulmonary diseases, convenient to use, and obtained patient cooperation.

Our clinical experiences with the various pharmaceutical formulations of crystalline trypsin dictate the impression that trypsin aqueous and enteric coated trypsin are effective therapeutically in certain pulmonary diseases used either alone, or in combination, as we described. They seem to enhance the clinical effectiveness of antituberculosis drugs and antibiotics and thus promote more rapid clinical improvement in patient with pulmonary diseases due to infections.