Herb & supplement monograph

Goldthread Drug Interactions, Uses, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS ·Updated July 2026

What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Goldthread interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Goldthread is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Goldthread is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Goldthread Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Goldthread drug interaction appears low for most people, since the listed concerns remain theoretical rather than proven in humans. None of the interactions are rated major, and all of them trace back to lab research suggesting a possible effect that has not been confirmed in human studies.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The interaction that deserves the closest attention involves cyclosporine, a transplant medication where even small changes in blood levels can matter. Berberine, a compound in goldthread, may slow the body's ability to clear this drug, which could raise its levels. The same concern applies more broadly to medications cleared by the same enzyme, including drugs like lovastatin and clarithromycin, though this has not been reported in people so far.

What the rest of the list means

The long list of interacting medications reflects a single theoretical mechanism, not hundreds of separate problems. Goldthread may affect one enzyme the body uses to clear many common medicines, so every drug processed that way appears on the list. Because this is based on very preliminary lab evidence, most of these combinations may never cause a noticeable effect.

Check your medications against Goldthread

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Goldthread interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Goldthread

645 medications have a known interaction with Goldthread, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

Don’t want to scroll the list? Just ask.

Tell us the medications you take and we’ll check each one against Goldthread using our pharmacist-reviewed interaction data.

AI summaries are generated from our Goldthread interaction data for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI

2,830 drugs

Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Goldthread combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.

The big picture

The kinds of drugs Goldthread affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Goldthread is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 2 drug categories Goldthread interacts with

Cyclosporine (neoral, Sandimmune)Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Berberine, a constituent of goldthread, can reduce metabolism of cyclosporine and increase serum levels. It might inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), which metabolizes cyclosporine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

There's very preliminary evidence that berberine, a constituent of goldthread, might inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans. However, watch for an increase in the levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 in patients taking goldthread. Some drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 include lovastatin (Mevacor), clarithromycin (Biaxin), indinavir (Crixivan), sildenafil (Viagra), triazolam (Halcion), and numerous others. Use goldthread cautiously or avoid in patients taking these drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Monograph

Goldthread: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS · Reviewed July 2026 ·

The bottom line

Goldthread is a traditional Chinese and East Asian herb whose root is rich in berberine, a compound being studied for blood sugar, cholesterol, and antimicrobial effects. Strong human evidence for goldthread itself is limited, and it should be avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor before using it, especially if you take other medicines.

Scientific name: Coptis chinensis
Family: Ranunculaceae
Part used: Root and rhizome (the underground stem)
Common forms: Dried root, powder, capsules, tinctures, teas, and topical preparations

People commonly use it for

Digestive upset and diarrhea
Mouth sores and sore throat
Inflammation
Antimicrobial (fighting germs)
Blood sugar support
Skin and eye complaints

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance

OverallUse caution

May be tolerated short-term by some adults, but human safety data are limited and quality varies between products.

PregnancyLikely Unsafe

When used orally. Berberine is thought to cross the placenta and may cause harm to the fetus. Kernicterus has developed in newborn infants exposed to...

Read the full pregnancy detail

BreastfeedingLikely Unsafe

When used orally. Berberine and other harmful constituents can be transferred to the infant through breast milk.

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Goldthread is a perennial herb named for its bright yellow, thread-like roots. Several related plants share the name, but the most studied is Coptis chinensis, often called Chinese goldthread, which grows in parts of China and other areas of Asia. The yellow root has long been used as a natural dye and as a traditional medicine.

In traditional Chinese medicine, goldthread root is valued as a "bitter" herb and has been used for digestive complaints, infections, mouth and throat irritation, and inflammation. Today it is sold as dried root, powders, capsules, tinctures, and teas. Much of the modern interest comes from one of its main active compounds, berberine, which is also sold on its own as a popular supplement.

Uses & effectiveness

People use goldthread for a wide range of reasons, including diarrhea and digestive upset, mouth sores, sore throat, skin or eye irritation, inflammation, and to support blood sugar. These uses come mostly from traditional practice and laboratory research rather than large, high-quality human studies of goldthread itself.

Most of the scientific evidence focuses on berberine, one chemical found in goldthread, not on the whole herb. Some studies suggest berberine may help modestly with blood sugar and cholesterol, but these were studied as purified berberine, often at specific doses that differ from what is in a goldthread product. It is not safe to assume goldthread will work the same way or be as predictable as a standardized berberine supplement.

Overall, the evidence supporting goldthread for any specific health condition is limited and not conclusive. More well-designed human trials are needed before it can be recommended for treating any disease.

How it works

Goldthread root contains several plant compounds called alkaloids. The best known is berberine, along with related compounds such as coptisine and palmatine. These give the root its bright yellow color and its bitter taste.

In laboratory and animal studies, berberine appears to affect blood sugar handling, influence gut bacteria, and act against certain bacteria, fungi, and other germs. It may also affect inflammation pathways. Most of these findings come from cell and animal research, so it is not certain how strongly they apply to people taking goldthread by mouth.

Safety & precautions

Human safety information for goldthread is limited, and the strength and purity of products can vary. Because of its berberine content, certain people should be especially careful.

Pregnancy: Avoid goldthread. Berberine-containing herbs may cross the placenta and have been linked to a serious problem in newborns called kernicterus (a type of brain injury related to high bilirubin). Breastfeeding: Avoid goldthread, since berberine can pass into breast milk and may harm the infant.

Goldthread should not be given to newborns or infants. People with liver disease, those who are seriously ill, and anyone taking prescription medicines should check with a pharmacist or doctor first. Because berberine may lower blood sugar, people with diabetes should monitor closely. As with any supplement, choose products from reputable manufacturers and stop use if you feel unwell.

Side effects

Reported side effects of berberine-containing products are mostly digestive, such as stomach upset, cramping, diarrhea, constipation, or nausea. Some people may notice these more at higher amounts.

Because goldthread is bitter and concentrated, taking too much could increase stomach irritation. Serious reactions appear uncommon in adults, but high doses of berberine have been linked to dangerous effects in newborns. If you develop a rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes, severe stomach pain, or any concerning symptom, stop using it and seek medical care.

Dosing

There is no well-established standard dose for goldthread. Products differ widely in how they are made and how much active compound they contain, so it is hard to recommend a single safe amount.

The best approach is to follow the directions on the product label and not exceed them. Because goldthread contains berberine, talk with a pharmacist or doctor before starting, especially if you have a health condition or take other medicines. Do not use it in infants, during pregnancy, or while breastfeeding.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Goldthread & Pregnancy

Likely Unsafe

When used orally. Berberine is thought to cross the placenta and may cause harm to the fetus. Kernicterus has developed in newborn infants exposed to berberine. Preliminary evidence suggests that maternal intake of goldthread during the first trimester increases the risk of congenital malformations of the central nervous system.

Goldthread & Breastfeeding

Likely Unsafe

When used orally. Berberine and other harmful constituents can be transferred to the infant through breast milk.

Chan E. Displacement of bilirubin from albumin by berberine. Biol Neonate 1993;63:201-8.

DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 3 references that drive our Goldthread monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Chan E. Displacement of bilirubin from albumin by berberine. Biol Neonate 1993;63:201-8. PubMed
Wu X, Li Q, Xin H, Yu A, Zhong M. Effects of berberine on the blood concentration of cyclosporin A in renal transplanted recipients: clinical and pharmacokinetic study. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2005;61:567-72. PubMed
Chuang CH, Doyle P, Wang JD, et al. Herbal medicines used during the first trimester and major congenital malformations: an analysis of data from a pregnancy cohort study. Drug Saf 2006;29:537-48. PubMed

Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Goldthread

82 brands in our database make a supplement containing Goldthread.

Akasha Naturals 20 products Allergy Research Group 1,595 products Amazing Herbs 80 products Anabolic Laboratories 177 products BulkSupplements.com 5,595 products ChiroNutraceutical 11 products Clean 4 products Clinical Synergy Professional Formulas 33 products Codeage 203 products Crystal Star 123 products D'Adamo Personalized Nutrition 21 products dr.bo 40 products Earth Friend Herb Co. 66 products ecoNugenics 102 products Energetix 283 products Extreme Products 32 products Fully Flora 17 products Gaia Herbs 700 products Gaia Herbs Professional Solutions 145 products Gaia Herbs SystemSupport 60 products Global Healing Center 98 products Green Organic Supplements 3 products Guang Ci Tang 121 products Hawaii Pharm 4,726 products

Product directory

Supplement products with Goldthread

343 products in our database contain Goldthread. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Goldthread: Common Questions

Does Goldthread interact with prescription medications?

Yes. We list 645 medications with a known interaction with Goldthread. Use the checker above to see how Goldthread interacts with a specific drug.

How are Goldthread interactions rated?

Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.

Is it safe to take Goldthread with my medications?

It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.

Where does this Goldthread interaction information come from?

Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.

What is Goldthread used for?

People traditionally use Goldthread for digestive upset, diarrhea, mouth and throat irritation, inflammation, infections, and blood sugar support. Strong human evidence for these uses is limited, so it should not replace proven treatments.

Is Goldthread the same as berberine?

Not exactly. Berberine is one of the main active compounds found in Goldthread root, but Goldthread is the whole herb and contains other compounds too. Studies on berberine were done with the purified compound, not the whole plant.

Is Goldthread safe to take during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No. Because of its berberine content, Goldthread should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it may harm the baby. It should also never be given to newborns or infants.

What are the most common side effects?

The most common side effects are digestive, such as stomach upset, cramping, diarrhea, or nausea. Stop using it and seek care if you notice a rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or severe stomach pain.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Keep exploring

Products that contain Goldthread

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Goldthread — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

See all 343 products with Goldthread →

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