dihydroberberine

Dihydroberberine is a **hydrogenated derivative of berberine**, belonging to the isoquinoline alkaloid class. It is produced by the reduction of a double bond in berberine, resulting in the tetrahydroisoquinoline framework. Dihydroberberine exhibits **much higher oral bioavailability and improved absorption** relative to berberine, making it potentially more effective at lower doses[1][2][7]. Research indicates it acts mainly by **activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)**, thereby modulating **glucose transport, lipid metabolism, and cellular energetics**[1][5]. Dihydroberberine is under investigation for potential benefits in **metabolic disorders**, including **type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular health**, as well as for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions[1][2][5]. It is typically marketed as a dietary supplement, not as a regulated pharmaceutical. Dihydroberberine is commonly synthesized from plant-derived berberine or made synthetically for supplement use[1][2][4].

Other names

DHBdihydroberberineNsc331264Nsc-331264Nsc 331264DihydroberbineDihyddroberberineDihydroberberine-RM7,8-dihydroberberineBerberine Dihydro ImpurityDihydrouMbellatineDihydroberberine, 10 mM in DMSO