Berberine for Metabolic Syndrome

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byJames Backes, PharmD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: University of Kansas Medical Center

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial is studying berberine, a plant-based supplement used in traditional Chinese medicine, to see if it can lower cholesterol and blood sugar. The study targets people who prefer not to use prescription medications. Berberine works in a way similar to some common drugs by managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Berberine has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over a thousand years to treat various conditions, including bacterial infections, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Research Team

James Backes, PharmD

Principal Investigator

University of Kansas Medical Center

Eligibility Criteria

Adults over 18 with metabolic syndrome, characterized by certain waist sizes, triglyceride and HDL cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose. They must not be on lipid-altering agents or have conditions like diabetes or chronic GI issues that could interfere with the study.

Inclusion Criteria

Your fasting triglyceride level is higher than 300 mg/dL.

I am 18 years old or older.

I meet at least 3 criteria for metabolic syndrome.

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Exclusion Criteria

Presence of any medical or psychological condition that in the opinion of the investigator will compromise safe subject participation for the duration of the study

I have diabetes with an HbA1c of 6.5% or higher, or my fasting blood sugar is over 126 mg/dL.

I am currently on steroid medication.

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Treatment Details

Interventions

Berberine (Dietary Supplement)
Identical Placebo (Other)

Trial OverviewThe trial is testing Berberine's effects on cholesterol and blood sugar compared to a placebo. It aims to determine if Berberine can be an alternative to prescription medications for lowering cholesterol and blood sugar in people who prefer supplements.

Participant Groups

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Placebo Group

Group I: BerberineExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Group II: Identical PlaceboPlacebo Group1 Intervention