From the FDA Drug Label
Hydrastis canadensis 1M Less than 10 -12 mg hydrastine, berberine alkaloids per pellet (**contains 0.443 mg of the active ingredient per pellet) The clinical use of Berberine is not explicitly stated in the provided drug label. No conclusion can be drawn about the clinical use of Berberine from this information 1.
From the Research
Berberine is a natural compound that can be used to manage blood sugar, cholesterol, and weight, with a typical recommended dose of 500mg taken 2-3 times daily with meals, for a total of 1000-1500mg per day, as supported by the most recent study 2.
Clinical Use of Berberine
The clinical use of berberine is backed by its wide range of pharmacological effects, including antimicrobial, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, neuroprotective, and cholesterol-lowering properties 2.
- Berberine has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity and secretion by pancreatic β-cells in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, making it a potential treatment for diabetes 2.
- It also reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-1β, TLR4, and TNF-α, which are elevated in Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes 2.
- As a natural PCSK9 inhibitor, berberine contributes to its hypolipidemic effects, increasing low-density lipoprotein receptor expression, reducing intestinal cholesterol absorption, and promoting cholesterol excretion from the liver to the bile 2.
Dosage and Administration
- The recommended dose of berberine is 500mg taken 2-3 times daily with meals, for a total of 1000-1500mg per day 2.
- Berberine should be taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea, constipation, or stomach upset.
Safety and Interactions
- While generally considered safe, berberine may interact with certain medications, particularly those processed by the liver or that affect blood sugar 3, 4.
- People taking diabetes medications should monitor blood sugar closely as berberine may enhance their effects.
- Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and those with certain medical conditions should avoid berberine.