Effect of Berberine Supplement in Iraqi Sample of Type 2 Diabetic Patients with Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections

Abstract

In recent years, in vitro and in vivo research has shown that the Chinese traditional herb berberine, commonly used to treat bacterial diarrhea, decreases blood glucose levels. Berberine’s efficacy and safety in treating patients with recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in type 2 diabetes were assessed in this randomized, single-blind controlled study. Metformin was given to 60 persons with documented type 2 diabetes and UTIs for 12 weeks. According to the study, group A (Control group) received metformin (0.5 g t.i.d.) and group B received a mixture of berberine (0.5 g b.i.d.) and metformin (0.5 g t.i.d.) with a 24 weeks follow-up period. After 12 weeks of treatment, the medicinal plant berberine reduces the recurrence of UTIs in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by significantly lowering pyuria (WBCs/HPF), bacteriuria (>105 CFU/mL), and hematuria (RBCs/HPF) in patients compared to pre-treatment values and the control group. Fasting plasma glucose levels in both groups decreased significantly after 12 weeks of treatment for type 2 diabetes, relative to pre-treatment values and between groups. The berberine group saw a statistically significant decrease in urea, but not in creatinine or uric acid. In conclusion, this randomized study indicates that using berberine supplements to treat, prevent, and reduce recurring urinary tract infections in type 2 diabetes.