March 17, 2025

Medically Reviewed by By Girish Desai, the Chief Pharmacist at Landys Chemist since 1982.

Written by Rhysa Phommachanh Head of Digital Marketing

Is Berberine Bad For Kidneys? Pros and Cons

Berberine is a popular natural supplement, often used for its potential benefits in managing blood sugar levels, aiding weight loss, and supporting blood pressure. It's commonly used by people dealing with diabetes, PCOS, and high blood pressure. However, concerns have arisen about its effects on kidney health, especially when combined with medications.

This blog covers everything you need to know about berberine and its potential impact on the kidneys.

berberine side effects kidneys

What is Berberine?

Berberine is a compound derived from several plants, including Berberis vulgaris, and is frequently used in traditional medicine to manage blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Research has shown that berberine supplements can help regulate high blood sugar, support weight loss, and improve metabolic health. Read more: Complete Guide To Berberine Supplementation.

Potential Risks Between Berberine and Kidney Health

While berberine has promising benefits, some studies raise concerns about its effects on kidney function, especially in individuals taking medications that also affect the kidneys. Since the kidneys process both medications and supplements, it’s important to understand how berberine might affect them.

Berberine with Diabetes Medications

A 2024 study highlights berberine's potent glucose-lowering properties, suggesting it may enhance the effects of medications like metformin or insulin. However, Girish Desai, pharmacist at Landys Chemist, warns, “Combining berberine with these medications can cause blood sugar to drop too much, leading to hypoglycaemia and added stress on the kidneys.”

For individuals with diabetes, combining berberine with their medications can increase the risk of dangerously low blood sugar, putting extra strain on the kidneys as they regulate glucose and filter out excess insulin or medication.

Berberine and Blood Pressure Medications

Berberine has been shown to affect blood pressure, making it popular for individuals with hypertension. However, when combined with medications like ACE inhibitors (e.g., ramipril) or diuretics, it can amplify effects, leading to hypotension (low blood pressure).

Low blood pressure can also strain kidney function, as the kidneys help regulate blood pressure. Research found that as the degree of hypotension worsened, the risk of acute kidney injury increased, emphasising the importance of maintaining adequate blood pressure to protect kidney function. Therefore, combining berberine with other blood pressure-lowering medications could strain the kidneys.

Girish Desai advises, “It’s important to monitor for symptoms like dizziness or fainting when taking blood pressure lowering supplements and medication.”

Can Berberine Be Good for Kidney Health?

Some studies also suggest berberine could have positive effects on kidney health. For instance, berberine has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help protect the kidneys from damage. Research suggests that berberine can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, two factors that contribute to kidney dysfunction, especially in individuals with conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

Another study found that berberine may improve kidney function in patients with diabetic nephropathy by reducing kidney fibrosis and lowering blood sugar levels, further supporting berberine’s potential to protect the kidneys under certain circumstances.

Side Effects of Berberine on the Kidneys

While berberine is generally safe for most people, it can cause some side effects, particularly in individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Here are a few potential side effects related to kidney function and other common effects:

Kidney-Related Side Effects:

Increased stress on the kidneys (especially when combined with medications like metformin, insulin, or blood pressure medications)
Risk of dehydration due to its potential effects on blood pressure and fluid balance
Potential for kidney damage in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions, particularly if used with other kidney-affecting drugs

Other Common Side Effects of Berberine:

Gastrointestinal issues (e.g., bloating, constipation, or diarrhoea)
Low blood sugar (especially when taken with diabetes medications)
Stomach cramps
Headache
Dizziness or lightheadedness

Is Berberine Safe for Your Kidneys?

Yes, Berberine is generally safe for most people and may even offer positive benefits for kidney health, particularly through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, if you're taking certain medications, such as diabetes medications (e.g., metformin or insulin) or blood pressure medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors or diuretics), it’s important to consult your doctor before use. To ensure safe supplementation, always follow recommended guidelines and best practices.

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This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your doctor or healthcare provider before starting any supplements, treatments, or remedies. Ensure a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle before considering supplements. Supplements should not replace a balanced diet.