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DRUG INTERACTIONS (SEVERE): CYP3A4 inhibition (cyclosporine, statins, immunosuppressants), P-gp inhibition (digoxin — significantly increased exposure, risk of toxicity), CYP2D6 inhibition (metoprolol, codeine). DIABETES MEDICATIONS: severe hypoglycaemia risk when combined with insulin or oral hypoglycaemics. Pregnancy: CONTRAINDICATED — induces uterine contractions, animal embryotoxicity. Neonates: kernicterus risk from bilirubin displacement. NOT suitable as OTC supplement for patients on multiple medications without physician guidance.
Isoquinoline alkaloid from Berberis vulgaris, Coptis chinensis, and other plants. AMPK activator with potent glucose-lowering effects comparable to metformin. P-glycoprotein inhibitor and potent CYP3A4 inhibitor. Classified as potentially unsafe due to drug interaction potential.
Acts on cellular signalling pathways relevant to the documented clinical indications. Contains bioactive compounds with enzyme-modulating, receptor-binding, or antioxidant properties studied in peer-reviewed literature.
| Population | Safety rating | Max safe dose |
|---|---|---|
| Diabetes | Possibly safe | 500mg 2-3x/day under medical supervision |
| May reduce HbA1c similarly to metformin. Medical supervision required — can cause hypoglycaemia. | ||
| General | Possibly unsafe | — |
| Based on general risk level assessment. | ||
No peer-reviewed clinical trial data found for this ingredient.
Immunosuppressants
Berberine inhibits P-glycoprotein and CYP3A4, significantly increasing cyclosporine levels (toxicity risk).
Antidiabetics
Additive blood glucose lowering effect. While potentially beneficial, may cause hypoglycaemia and GI side effects are compounded.
Data by supplement.ge — Public Health Institute of Georgia (PHIG)