Faculty Sponsor

Jana Stedman

College

College of Nursing & Health Professions (CONHP)

Department/Program

Valparaiso University Physician Assistant Program

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Summer 7-23-2025

Abstract

Objective: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common chronic disease with significant complications if poorly managed. This study evaluated the effectiveness of berberine--the primary active compound in Rhizoma Coptidis-- compared to metformin, a widely used oral hypoglycemic agent, in managing blood glucose in adults with T2DM. It also examined berberine's impact on metabolic syndrome components, including prediabetes, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and chronic inflammation.

Methods: A literature review was conducted using Google Scholar and PubMed with keywords including "berberine", "Rhizoma Coptidis", "metformin", and "type 2 diabetes". Included studies were full-text, published in English since 2019, and involved adult humans with T2DM. Eligible studies reported hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) as an outcome and compared berberine to metformin or placebo. Animal studies and those involving other diabetes medications were excluded. Key outcomes assessed were HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), two-hour postprandial blood glucose (2hPPG), and metabolic syndrome markers.

Results: Berberine significantly lowered HbA1c, FPG, and 2hPPG levels, showing hypoglycemic effects comparable to metformin. Combination therapy with metformin further improved glycemic control. Berberine also reduced lipid levels, body mass index (BMI), and inflammatory markers, indicating benefits for metabolic syndrome. Reported side effects were generally mild and gastrointestinal in nature.

Conclusion: Berberine is a safe and effective treatment for glucose control in T2DM, with outcomes similar to metformin. Greater glucose control was obtained with berberine and metformin combination therapy. Its additional benefits in addressing metabolic syndrome and its effects in combination therapy suggest broader clinical utility.

Keywords: Berberine, Metformin, Type 2 Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome, Rhizoma Coptidis

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Grace Poduch has an anticipated graduation date of July 25, 2025 from the Valparaiso University Physician Assistant Program. Her favorite rotation was Endocrinology because of the medication management for types I and II diabetes and for discovering a passion for diabetes education. She plans on working in family medicine in Indiana after graduation. Her special interest in diabetes management has inspired her to research the topic of "Efficacy of Berberine in Glucose and Metabolic Control".

Download

Share

COinS