Can metformin and berberine be combined?

Studies can be found in the literature suggesting that the concomitant use of berberine with metformin contained in Siofor 850 is safe and effective in reducing sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, both substances may interact with each other. Berberine may increase the amount of metformin in the body, thus intensifying the effects and side effects associated with the use of metformin. Some of the reports say that this interaction is most likely when berberine is taken about 2 hours before metformin. Concomitant intake of berberine and metformin does not appear to increase the amount of metformin in the body. Insufficient number of studies confirming these relationships and their quality are the reason why advice from a diabetologist should be sought before starting supplementation with preparations containing berberine during metformin treatment. Combining 2 substances with hypoglycemic effects can lead to excessive lowering of blood sugar levels. It should be remembered that both too high and too low blood sugar levels can be dangerous, hence glycemia should be monitored during the possible combination of metformin and berberine. We wrote more about whether taking several drugs at the same time can be dangerous in the text: https://www.gdziepolek.pl/artykuly/czy-przyjmowanie-kilku-lekow-jednoczesnie-jest-bezpieczne Below are links to track availability and reservation in any pharmacy of Siofor 850: https://www.gdziepolek.pl/produkty/71383/siofor-850-tabletki-powlekane/apteki