Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Dr. Mercola
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.
Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy
Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced is a dietary supplement by Dr. Mercola with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for blood sugar control, high cholesterol, heart and metabolic health.Based on those ingredients, 1,160 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Berberine Hydrochloride. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced by Dr. Mercola
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced by Dr. Mercola — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.
AI summaries are generated from our interaction database for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced by Dr. Mercola
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Full disclosure
This product contains two active ingredients. Berberine Hydrochloride is the main component—a plant alkaloid compound studied for effects on blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
The other active is Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium Salt Complex (often called PQQ), which appears in a proprietary form; we don't have detailed data on its specific role in this formulation. The remaining ingredients—hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, ascorbyl palmitate, microcrystalline cellulose, silicon dioxide, carnauba wax, and beta-cyclodextrin—are inactive and serve as capsule material, binders, and flow agents.
Does it work?
Moderate evidence
Berberine has research supporting its use for several conditions. The evidence suggests it may be effective for high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia), PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), high blood pressure (hypertension), and type 2 diabetes.
It also shows possible effectiveness against Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium linked to stomach ulcers. All of these are rated as possibly effective—meaning the evidence supports potential benefit, but more robust studies would strengthen the case.
We hold no effectiveness data on PQQ in this product.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Berberine is generally well tolerated when taken by mouth, but digestive side effects are common: abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, gas, nausea, and vomiting occur in many users. Some people also report dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, or headache.
Serious side effects are rare, but intravenous berberine (not relevant here) has caused dangerous heart rhythm problems in a small number of cases. Berberine is not safe during pregnancy—it can cross the placenta and has been linked to newborn harm.
It also passes into breast milk, so avoid it while breastfeeding. Safety data on PQQ during pregnancy and lactation is not on file.
Meds to double-check
Major interaction found
Check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting if you take any of the following: cyclosporine (immunosuppressant), sedating medications like benzodiazepines or opioids, blood pressure drugs, blood thinners or antiplatelet agents like warfarin or aspirin, diabetes medications, or any drug that's processed by your liver—including many antidepressants, heart medications, and cholesterol drugs. This product may change how those medications work.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence behind its ingredients' uses. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
This product is worth considering if you're interested in natural support for blood sugar, cholesterol, or blood pressure and have no relevant medications. But because berberine interacts with so many drugs—from immunosuppressants to heart medications to diabetes treatments—you absolutely must check your exact prescriptions before starting.
Talk to your pharmacist or doctor first, and don't take this if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 1 of 2 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Mar 25, 2025.
This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed
General information
Key facts about Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Dr. Mercola |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 813006018463 |
| Net contents | 30 Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Mar 25, 2025 |
| DSLD ID | 327144 |
| Product type | Non-nutrient/non-botanical |
| Supplement form | Capsule |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years) |
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.
Supplement Facts
The label details for Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced by Dr. Mercola, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium Salt Complex | 10 mg | -- |
| Berberine Hydrochloride | 500 mg | -- |
Other ingredients: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Silicon Dioxide, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Carnauba Wax, Beta-Cyclodextrin
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested use: Adults, as a dietary supplement, take one (1) capsule daily with a meal.
Precautions
Keep out of reach of children.
Do not use if safety seal is broken.
If you are nursing, pregnant, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult your physician before taking this product.
FDA Statement of Identity
Dietary Supplement
General Statements
Providing quality products since 2001.
Brand IP Statement(s)
MicroPQQ is a registered trademark of BioActives, LLC.
Formula
Contains 50% PQQ.
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced by Dr. Mercola label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.
View the full label (PDF)The Ingredients in Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced by Dr. Mercola
These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container30 Amounts shown are per serving.
Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.
Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium Salt Complex
Berberine Hydrochloride
Interacts with1,160 drugs
Berberine is a yellow plant compound that has shown promise for lowering blood sugar and cholesterol in some studies, but the quality of research vari...
Berberine Hydrochloride monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Silicon Dioxide, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Carnauba Wax, Beta-Cyclodextrin. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced by Dr. Mercola Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced by Dr.
Mercola contains berberine, which interacts with a significant number of medications. The most serious concern is cyclosporine (an immunosuppressant used after organ transplants), where berberine can raise blood levels of the drug to potentially unsafe levels by slowing how your body breaks it down—this is a Major-severity interaction.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Berberine also affects several other drug types at Moderate severity. It can add to the sedative effects of CNS depressants (sleeping pills, anxiety medications, opioids).
It may lower blood pressure further if you're already on blood pressure medications. It can slow the breakdown of drugs metabolized by three liver enzymes (CYP2D6, CYP2C9, and CYP3A4), meaning many common medications—including certain antidepressants, heart drugs, and statins—could build up to higher levels.
It may also raise bleeding risk with blood thinners (anticoagulants) or aspirin-like drugs, and increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) if you take diabetes medications.
We could not check the other ingredient, Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium Salt Complex, because we hold no data for it.
Altogether, these interactions span 1,148 individual medications. Use the medication checker on this page with your exact prescriptions before you start.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced?
Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.
Go to the checkerIngredients driving the most interactions
Individual Drug Interactions
The ingredients in Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced interact with 1,160 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
1 of the 2 ingredients in Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Berberine Hydrochloride
CyclosporineCequa, Ciclosporine, Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune, Verkazia +1 more
How Cyclosporine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cyclosporine (neoral, Sandimmune) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Cyclosporine interactionAdo-trastuzumab EmtansineKadcyla
How Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interactionAbciximabReoPro
How Abciximab interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Abciximab interactionAbemaciclibVerzenio
How Abemaciclib interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Abemaciclib interactionAbiraterone
How Abiraterone interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Abiraterone interactionAbiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
How Abiraterone Acetate interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Abiraterone Acetate interactionAbrocitinibCibinqo
How Abrocitinib interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs, Cytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Abrocitinib interactionAcalabrutinibCalquence
How Acalabrutinib interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acalabrutinib interactionAcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
How Acarbose interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acarbose interactionAcebutololRhotral, Sectral
How Acebutolol interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might have additive effects with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acebutolol interactionAcenocoumarolSintrom
How Acenocoumarol interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acenocoumarol interactionAcepromazineAtravet
How Acepromazine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acepromazine interactionAcetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interactionAcetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cns Depressants +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Cns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine PhosphatePhrenilin #3
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCns Depressants, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCns Depressants, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, CodeineGesic C15, Gesic C30, Gesic C8, Lenoltec 1, Lenoltec 2, Lenoltec 3 +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Cns Depressants +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCns Depressants, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideDextromethorphan (robitussin Dm, Others), Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine may increase serum levels of dextromethorphan.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Cns Depressants +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Dextromethorphan (robitussin Dm, Others) +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Cold Plus Cough, Tylenol Cold Ex Strength
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interacts with Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Berberine HydrochlorideDextromethorphan (robitussin Dm, Others), Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, berberine may increase serum levels of dextromethorphan.
Read the full Berberine Hydrochloride + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.
Berberine Hydrochloride
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
Berberine can increase serum levels of cyclosporine.
Berberine can reduce metabolism and increase serum levels of cyclosporine. Berberine might inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), which metabolizes cyclosporine.
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
Theoretically, berberine might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro and in vivo research suggest that berberine can inhibit platelet aggregation. Theoretically, berberine might have additive effects when used with anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs and increase the risk of bleeding.
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, berberine may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Clinical research shows that berberine may lower blood glucose levels. Theoretically, berberine might have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Antihypertensive Drugs
Theoretically, berberine might have additive effects with antihypertensive drugs.
Animal research suggests that berberine can have hypotensive effects. Also, a clinical study suggests that taking berberine in combination with amlodipine can lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure when compared with amlodipine alone.
Cns Depressants
Theoretically, berberine might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Animal research suggests that berberine may have sedative effects. Theoretically, use of berberine along with CNS depressants might produce additive therapeutic and adverse effects.
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
Preliminary clinical research shows that berberine can inhibit CYP2C9. Theoretically, taking berberine with drugs metabolized by CYP2C9 might increase drug levels and increase the risk of adverse effects.
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro research and preliminary clinical evidence show that berberine can inhibit CYP2D6. Theoretically, use of berberine with drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 might increase drug levels and increase the risk of adverse effects.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research and preliminary clinical research show that berberine moderately inhibits CYP3A4. Theoretically, use of berberine with drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 might increase drug levels and increase the risk of adverse effects.
Dextromethorphan (Robitussin Dm, Others)
Theoretically, berberine may increase serum levels of dextromethorphan.
Preliminary clinical research shows that berberine can inhibit cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) activity and reduce the metabolism of dextromethorphan. This may increase the effects and side effects of dextromethorphan.
Losartan (Cozaar)
Berberine might reduce the therapeutic effects of losartan by decreasing its conversion to its active form.
Preliminary clinical research suggests that berberine can inhibit cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) activity and reduce metabolism of losartan.
Metformin (Glucophage)
Theoretically, berberine might increase the therapeutic and adverse effects of metformin.
In vitro and animal studies show that berberine can increase the systemic exposure and half-life of metformin, potentially increasing metformin's effects and side effects. This interaction seems to be most apparent when berberine is administered 2 hours prior to metformin. Taking berberine and metformin at the same time does not appear to increase systemic exposure to metformin.
Midazolam (Versed)
Berberine can reduce metabolism of midazolam, which might increase the risk of severe adverse effects.
Preliminary clinical research shows that berberine can inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) activity and reduce metabolism of midazolam.
Pentobarbital (Nembutal)
Berberine might increase the sedative effect of pentobarbital.
Evidence from animal research shows that berberine can prolong pentobarbital-induced sleeping time. Theoretically, combining berberine and pentobarbital might increase the sedative effects of pentobarbital.
Tacrolimus (Prograf)
Berberine has been associated with increased blood levels of tacrolimus.
In a 16-year-old patient with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome who was being treated with tacrolimus 6.5 mg twice daily, intake of berberine 200 mg three times daily increased the blood concentration of tacrolimus from 8 to 22 ng/mL. Following a reduction of the tacrolimus dose to 3 mg daily, blood levels of tacrolimus decreased to 12 ng/mL.
Acetazolamide
Laboratory studies and initial clinical findings suggest that berberine has the potential to increase acetazolamide concentrations in the body. More research is needed to confirm this interaction.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced, from the product label.
Dr. Mercola
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Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced by Dr. Mercola: Common Questions
Does Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced by Dr. Mercola interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
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Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
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The Full Monographs Behind Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Sources & How We Checked
Berberine and MicroPQQ Advanced's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — The official product label on file for this supplement.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference behind the ingredient interaction data.
Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.
The 41 references behind this product’s interaction data
Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.
Berberine 41 references
- Chan E. Displacement of bilirubin from albumin by berberine. Biol Neonate 1993;63:201-8. PubMed
- Janbaz KH, Gilani AH. Studies on preventive and curative effects of berberine on chemical-induced hepatotoxicity in rodents. Fitoterapia 2000;71:25-33.. 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
- Zhang Y, Li X, Zou D, et al. Treatment of type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia with the natural plant alkaloid berberine. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2008;93:2559-65. PubMed
- Huang XS, Yang GF, Pan YC. Effect of berberin hydrochloride on blood concentration of cyclosporine A in cardiac transplanted patients. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 2008;28:702-4.
- Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000;7:273-82. PubMed
- Chatterjee P, Franklin MR. Human cytochrome p450 inhibition and metabolic-intermediate complex formation by goldenseal extract and its methylenedioxyphenyl components. Drug Metab Dispos 2003;31:1391-7. PubMed
- Marin-Neto, J. A., Maciel, B. C., Secches, A. L., and Gallo, Junior L. Cardiovascular effects of berberine in patients with severe congestive heart failure. Clin.Cardiol. 1988;11(4):253-260. PubMed
- Choudhry, V. P., Sabir, M., and Bhide, V. N. Berberine in giardiasis. Indian Pediatr. 1972;9(3):143-146.
- Shanbhag, S. M., Kulkarni, H. J., and Gaitonde, B. B. Pharmacological actions of berberine on the central nervous system. Jpn.J Pharmacol 1970;20(4):482-487. PubMed
- Wu, J. F. and Liu, T. P. [Effects of berberine on platelet aggregation and plasma levels of TXB2 and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha in rats with reversible middle cerebral artery occlusion]. Yao Xue.Xue.Bao. 1995;30(2):98-102.
- Peng, W. H., Hsieh, M. T., and Wu, C. R. Effect of long-term administration of berberine on scopolamine-induced amnesia in rats. Jpn J Pharmacol 1997;74(3):261-266. DOI
- Sharda DC. Berberine in the treatment of diarrhoea of infancy and childhood. J Indian M A 1970;54(1):22-24.
- Sabir M and Bhide NK. Study of some pharmacological actions of berberine. Ind J Physiol & Pharmac 1971;15(3):111-132.
- Tripathi YB and Shukla SD. Berberis artistata inhibits PAF induced aggregation of rabbit platelets. Phytotherapy Research 1996;10:628-630.
- Seery TM and Bieter RN. A contribution to the pharmacology of berberine. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 1940;69:64-67. DOI
- Xin, H. W., Wu, X. C., Li, Q., Yu, A. R., Zhong, M. Y., and Liu, Y. Y. The effects of berberine on the pharmacokinetics of cyclosporin A in healthy volunteers. Methods Find.Exp.Clin Pharmacol 2006;28(1):25-29.
- Zhang, Y., Li, X., Zou, D., Liu, W., Yang, J., Zhu, N., Huo, L., Wang, M., Hong, J., Wu, P., Ren, G., and Ning, G. Treatment of type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia with the natural plant alkaloid berberine. J Clin Endocrinol.Metab 2008;93(7):2559-2565. PubMed
- Yin, J., Xing, H., and Ye, J. Efficacy of berberine in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metabolism 2008;57(5):712-717. PubMed
- Zhang, H., Wei, J., Xue, R., Wu, J. D., Zhao, W., Wang, Z. Z., Wang, S. K., Zhou, Z. X., Song, D. Q., Wang, Y. M., Pan, H. N., Kong, W. J., and Jiang, J. D. Berberine lowers blood glucose in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients through increasing insulin re
- Guo, Y., Chen, Y., Tan, Z. R., Klaassen, C. D., and Zhou, H. H. Repeated administration of berberine inhibits cytochromes P450 in humans. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2012;68(2):213-217. PubMed
- Wei, W., Zhao, H., Wang, A., Sui, M., Liang, K., Deng, H., Ma, Y., Zhang, Y., Zhang, H., and Guan, Y. A clinical study on the short-term effect of berberine in comparison to metformin on the metabolic characteristics of women with polycystic ovary syndro
- Marazzi, G., Cacciotti, L., Pelliccia, F., Iaia, L., Volterrani, M., Caminiti, G., Sposato, B., Massaro, R., Grieco, F., and Rosano, G. Long-term effects of nutraceuticals (berberine, red yeast rice, policosanol) in elderly hypercholesterolemic patients. PubMed
- Meng, S., Wang, L. S., Huang, Z. Q., Zhou, Q., Sun, Y. G., Cao, J. T., Li, Y. G., and Wang, C. Q. Berberine ameliorates inflammation in patients with acute coronary syndrome following percutaneous coronary intervention. Clin Exp.Pharmacol Physiol 2012;39 PubMed
- Hermann, R. and von, Richter O. Clinical evidence of herbal drugs as perpetrators of pharmacokinetic drug interactions. Planta Med 2012;78(13):1458-1477. PubMed
- Chun YT, Yip TT, Lau KL, and et al. A biochemical study on the hypotensive effect of berberine in rats. Gen Pharmac 1979;10:177-182. PubMed
- Saksena HC, Tomar VN, and Soangra MR. Efficacy of a new salt of Berberine Uni-Berberine in oriental sore. Current Medical Practice 1970;14:247-252.
- Abascal K, Yarnell E. Recent clinical advances with berberine. Altern Complement Ther 2010;16(5):281-7. DOI
- Dong H, Zhao Y, Zhao L, Lu F. The effects of berberine on blood lipids: a systemic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Planta Med 2013;79(6):437-46. PubMed
- Hou Q, Han W, Fu X. Pharmacokinetic interaction between tacrolimus and berberine in a child with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2013;69(10):1861-2. PubMed
- Lan J, Zhao Y, Dong F, et al. Meta-analysis of the effect and safety of berberine in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperlipemia and hypertension. J Ethnopharmacol. 2015;161:69-81. PubMed
- Li G, Zhao M, Qiu F, Sun Y, Zhao L. Pharmacokinetic interactions and tolerability of berberine chloride with simvastatin and fenofibrate: an open-label, randomized, parallel study in healthy Chinese subjects. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2018;13:129-139. PubMed
- Ju J, Li J, Lin Q, Xu H. Efficacy and safety of berberine for dyslipidaemias: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Phytomedicine. 2018;50:25-34. PubMed
- Xu L, Zhang Y, Xue X, et al. A phase I trial of berberine in Chinese with ulcerative colitis. Cancer Prev Res (Phila). 2020;13(1):117-26. PubMed
- Lyu Y, Zhang Y, Yang M, et al. Pharmacokinetic interactions between metformin and berberine in rats: Role of oral administration sequences and microbiota. Life Sci. 2019;235:116818. PubMed
- Chen YX, Gao QY, Zou TH, et al. Berberine versus placebo for the prevention of recurrence of colorectal adenoma: a multicentre, double-blinded, randomised controlled study. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2020;5(3):267-75. PubMed
- Zhang J, Wang Y, Jiang H, et al. Preventive effect of berberine on postoperative atrial fibrillation. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2022;15(10):e011160. PubMed
- Blais JE, Huang X, Zhao JV. Overall and Sex-Specific Effect of Berberine for the Treatment of Dyslipidemia in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trials. Drugs 2023;83(5):403-427. PubMed
- Panigrahi A, Mohanty S. Efficacy and safety of HIMABERB® Berberine on glycemic control in patients with prediabetes: double-blind, placebo-controlled, and randomized pilot trial. BMC Endocr Disord 2023;23(1):190. PubMed
- Nie Q, Li M, Huang C, et al. The clinical efficacy and safety of berberine in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a meta-analysis and systematic review. J Transl Med 2024;22(1):225. PubMed
- Koperska A, Moszak M, Seraszek-Jaros A, Bogdanski P, Szulinska M. Does berberine impact anthropometric, hepatic, and metabolic parameters in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease? Randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled tr
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.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC