Berberine
Gastrointestinal
Plant-derived alkaloid traditionally used for diarrhea.
Generic name: Berberine hydrochloride
Brand names: Berberin (various Vietnamese manufacturers)
Dosage
Adults: 100–200 mg three times daily after meals.
Side effects
Constipation, mild abdominal discomfort, occasional rash.
Contraindications
Neonates (risk of kernicterus via bilirubin displacement), pregnancy.
Description
Berberine is isolated from Coptis chinensis and related plants. In Vietnam it is one of the most prescribed traditional-medicine-derived agents for acute infectious diarrhea, sold OTC at very low cost. Modern data also show modest effects on glycemic control and lipids.