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Updated: May 11, 2025

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Mechanistic Effects and Complications of Berberine on Cardiac Arrhythmias: A Systematic Review

Shahab Masoumi1,2, Mohammadreza Moetazedian3, Samira Jafari1

  • 1Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.

Current Reviews in Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology
|April 18, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Berberine (BBR) shows antiarrhythmic effects by improving heart function and electrical stability. However, BBR can cause adverse cardiovascular events like prolonged QT interval and bradycardia, necessitating further clinical research.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pharmacology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Cardiac arrhythmia poses significant health risks and can lead to fatal complications.
  • Understanding the therapeutic potential of natural compounds for arrhythmia management is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the effects of berberine (BBR) on cardiac arrhythmias.
  • To investigate the potential complications associated with BBR treatment for arrhythmia.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature search across major electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library) up to June 10, 2024.
  • Inclusion criteria focused on studies examining BBR's effects on cardiac arrhythmias.
  • Independent data extraction by two reviewers to ensure accuracy and minimize bias.

Main Results:

  • Berberine (BBR) demonstrated antiarrhythmic properties via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms, enhancing mitochondrial function.
  • BBR modulated ion channels (e.g., KATP, hERG, Kir6.2, Kir2.1) and improved electrical remodeling, increasing action potential duration and effective refractory period.
  • Adverse effects of BBR included prolonged QT interval, bradycardia, hypotension, gastrointestinal issues, and drug interactions.

Conclusions:

  • Berberine exhibits cardioprotective effects against cardiac arrhythmia.
  • Potential side effects of BBR include cardiotoxicity, bradycardia, and hypotension.
  • Further clinical studies are required to validate BBR's efficacy and safety profile for arrhythmia treatment.
Abstract

Keywords:
BerberineCardiovascular diseases (CVD)arrhythmiasatrial fibrillationbradycardiacardiotoxicityhypotensionventricular fibrillation

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