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Cardiovascular actions of berberine

  • Chi-Wai Lau
  • , Xiao-Qiang Yao
  • , Zhen-Yu Chen
  • , Wing-Hung Ko
  • , Yu Huang

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

Abstract

Berberine, is an alkaloid from Hydrastis canadensis L., Chinese herb Huanglian, and many other plants. It is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine as an antimicrobial in the treatment of dysentery and infectious diarrhea. This manuscript describes cardiovascular effects of berberine and its derivatives, tetrahydroberberine and 8-oxoberberine. Berberine has positive inotropic, negative chronotropic, antiarrhythmic, and vasodilator properties. Both derivatives of berberine have antiarrhythmic activity. Some of cardiovascular effects of berberine and its derivatives are attributed to the blockade of K+ channels (delayed rectifier and KATP) and stimulation of Na+-Ca2+ exchanger. Berberine has been shown to prolong the duration of ventricular action potential. Its vasodilator activity has been attributed to multiple cellular mechanisms. The cardiovascular effects of berberine suggest its possible clinical usefulness in the treatment of arrhythmias and/or heart failure.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)234-244
JournalCardiovascular Drug Reviews
Volume19
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2001
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Publication details (e.g. title, author(s), publication statuses and dates) are captured on an “AS IS” and “AS AVAILABLE” basis at the time of record harvesting from the data source. Suggestions for further amendments or supplementary information can be sent to [email protected].

UN SDGs

This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  1. SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
    SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being

Research Keywords

  • Antiarrhythmic drugs
  • Arrhythmia
  • Berberine
  • Cardiovascular drugs
  • Chinese medicine
  • Heart failure
  • Vasodilation

Policy Impact

  • Cited in Policy Documents

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