Amylase Unit Converter

Amylase is a digestive enzyme that breaks down starches and complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars. It works by splitting the chemical bonds in starch molecules, producing maltose and other smaller carbohydrate units that your body can absorb.

About 40-45% of blood amylase comes from the pancreas (P-type amylase), while 55-60% comes from the salivary glands (S-type amylase). Smaller amounts are also produced by the small intestine, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and liver.

Amylase in the blood is cleared by both the kidneys (about 25%) and the reticuloendothelial system (about 75%). A small amount normally circulates in the blood and can be detected in urine.

Amylase is produced primarily by the pancreatic acinar cells and the salivary glands (particularly the parotid glands). Smaller amounts are made by the small intestine, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and liver.