Berberine is a natural substance from plants that has been used in herbal remedies for many years and is now commonly available as a supplement in health food stores and pharmacies.

In 2023, interest in berberine surged, leading to a spike in Google searches by late June. Social media platforms like TikTok feature numerous videos highlighting its potential for weight loss, with some touting it as “nature’s Ozempic.”

Besides weight loss, berberine also shows promise for additional health benefits. Recent studies suggest it might aid heart health and help reduce blood sugar levels, according to Healthline.

How do berberine supplements compare to prescription drugs? Let’s explore what the experts say.

What is berberine?

Berberine is a plant-based chemical from sources like tree turmeric, barberry, goldenseal, and goldenthread, which have been significant in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine.

Its benefits may include supporting weight loss and helping regulate blood sugar, according to Alma Simmons, a registered dietitian nutritionist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

Berberine facilitates various cellular functions, among which activating an enzyme known as AMPK is a key role. Simmons mentions this enzyme is crucial for metabolic regulation and enhances insulin response, allowing cells to take in glucose more effectively.

Additionally, berberine may provide heart health benefits by lowering levels of triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and systolic blood pressure, as noted by Dr. Lona Sandon, PhD, RDN, LD, an associate professor of clinical nutrition at UT Southwestern. While some research backs these claims, it is recommended that further clinical trials be conducted due to potential biases found in existing studies.

Is berberine similar to Ozempic?

Can berberine be a natural substitute for drugs like Ozempic, as many claim on social media? “Berberine can assist with weight loss, but it works differently than Ozempic,” explains Brian Lee, a pharmacist at UCLA Health.

Ozempic and Wegovy, both containing the medication semaglutide, are prescription GLP-1 agonists that facilitate weight loss by slowing the digestive process and lowering appetite. Lee emphasizes that both have been thoroughly tested and approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, with Wegovy specifically aimed at weight loss and Ozempic for managing type 2 diabetes. There is substantial evidence demonstrating that semaglutide effectively supports weight loss.

Conversely, berberine supplements activate AMPK enzymes, influencing metabolism for potential weight loss benefits, according to Lee. However, Sandon notes that current studies on berberine have not specifically focused on weight loss as a target outcome, mostly suggesting its possible benefits. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health acknowledges existence of studies supporting berberine’s weight loss potential, yet others yield mixed results.

Thus, when comparing Ozempic or Wegovy to berberine, “there is more validated data for GLP-1 agonists concerning weight loss due to their FDA approval,” Lee advises. He stresses that a conversation with a healthcare provider or pharmacist is crucial before opting for berberine for weight loss.

Who should refrain from taking berberine?

According to Simmons, berberine is not suitable for young children, nor for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding. There are also various medications that may interact with berberine (like those prescribed for diabetes, hypertension, or seizures), which is why consulting a healthcare provider is essential before beginning any herbal supplement, Lee also notes.

If you’re cleared to take berberine, be mindful of possible side effects. It can lead to digestive issues such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, gas, and stomach discomfort, mentions Simmons. Furthermore, taking berberine could potentially elevate your bilirubin, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels.

Finally, “it’s critical to keep in mind that supplements are not subjected to the same rigorous safety and efficacy evaluations as prescription medications,” cautions Sandon. “If you decide to pursue a supplement, choose a reputable brand and ensure third-party testing.”