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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Berberis Vulgaris, Cantharis, Clematis Erecta, Lac Caninum, Lycopodium Clavatum, Pulsatilla (vulgaris), Sarsaparilla, Sepia, Staphysagria
Brand Name
Cystoges
Generic Name
Berberis Vulgaris, Cantharis, Clematis Erecta, Lac Caninum, Lycopodium Clavatum, Pulsatilla (vulgaris), Sarsaparilla, Sepia, Staphysagria
Active Ingredient
Berberis Vulgaris Root BarkCategory
Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Variants
1
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 [hp_X]/mL | LIQUID | ORAL | 43857-0064 |
Detailed information about Cystoges
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Cystoges, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark is a botanical extract primarily classified as a Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract. It is used in clinical allergy testing and is found in various homeopathic and traditional preparations for its alkaloid content.
Dosage for Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark varies significantly based on the intended use and the concentration of the preparation.
Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark is generally not recommended for use in infants and young children, particularly due to the risk of displacing bilirubin from albumin, which can lead to kernicterus (a type of brain damage) in neonates. Pediatric use for allergy testing must be strictly supervised by a specialist.
Use with caution. In traditional medicine, high doses have been associated with kidney irritation. Patients with a GFR < 30 mL/min should consult a nephrologist before use.
Since the alkaloids are metabolized by the liver, individuals with cirrhosis or hepatitis may require lower doses to prevent accumulation and potential toxicity.
Older adults should start at the lowest possible dose due to an increased likelihood of decreased renal function and potential polypharmacy (taking multiple medications).
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Signs of overdose include severe vomiting, diarrhea, nosebleeds (epistaxis), and kidney irritation (hematuria or blood in the urine). In the event of an accidental overdose, contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention immediately.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose without medical guidance.
> Warning: Stop taking Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these.
Prolonged use of high doses may lead to the depletion of certain beneficial gut bacteria or interfere with the absorption of Vitamin B. There is limited data on the safety of continuous use beyond 6 months.
No FDA black box warnings currently exist for Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark. However, it is contra-indicated in neonates due to the risk of hyperbilirubinemia.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark contains berberine, which is a potent bioactive compound. It should not be viewed as a simple 'herbal supplement' but as a pharmacologically active substance that can interact with various physiological systems.
No FDA black box warnings for Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark.
If using Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark long-term, your healthcare provider may require:
This substance generally does not interfere with the ability to drive. However, if you experience dizziness or hypotension, avoid these activities until the symptoms resolve.
Alcohol may exacerbate the gastrointestinal side effects of Berberis extracts and may increase the risk of liver strain when combined with high doses of alkaloids.
There are no known withdrawal symptoms associated with Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark. However, it is recommended to taper off high-dose extracts under medical supervision to monitor for any rebound effects in blood sugar or blood pressure.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions with your healthcare provider before starting Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Patients allergic to Oregon Grape (Berberis aquifolium) or Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) may also react to Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark due to the presence of shared alkaloids like berberine and palmatine.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history before prescribing Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark.
Category: Likely Unsafe. Berberine, the active component, is known to cross the placenta. Animal studies have suggested potential teratogenic effects at very high doses, and its ability to displace bilirubin poses a severe risk to the developing fetus.
Berberine is excreted into breast milk. Because of the risk of kernicterus in nursing infants, the use of Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark is generally discouraged while breastfeeding.
Safety and efficacy have not been established in children for oral use. Diagnostic allergenic use should be restricted to children over the age of 2, and only under the supervision of an allergy specialist.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the blood-pressure-lowering effects of this extract. Additionally, the risk of drug-drug interactions is higher in this population due to the prevalence of polypharmacy.
There is limited data on GFR-based adjustments. However, because high doses can be irritating to the kidneys, use is generally cautioned in those with pre-existing renal disease.
Patients with Child-Pugh Class B or C should avoid high-dose extracts, as the liver's ability to clear the alkaloids is significantly reduced.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment.
Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark works through a multi-target pharmacological approach. As an Allergenic Extract, it induces IgE-mediated mast cell degranulation. At the molecular level, its primary alkaloid, berberine, activates Adenosine Monophosphate-activated Protein Kinase (AMPK). This activation leads to increased GLUT4 translocation, enhancing glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and inhibiting gluconeogenesis in the liver. It also acts as a mild Cholinesterase Inhibitor, which may account for its traditional use in cognitive and gastrointestinal applications.
The onset of action for metabolic effects typically requires 2-4 weeks of consistent oral use. For allergy testing, the pharmacodynamic response (wheal and flare) occurs within 15-20 minutes of application.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | < 5% (Oral) |
| Protein Binding | ~70% (Berberine) |
| Half-life | 3 - 6 hours |
| Tmax | 1 - 2 hours |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (CYP3A4, 2D6, 2C9) |
| Excretion | Biliary (>90%), Renal (<10%) |
It is classified as a Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC]. Related substances include Goldenseal, Oregon Grape, and Coptis chinensis.
Common questions about Cystoges
Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark is primarily used in clinical settings as an allergenic extract for diagnosing plant-specific allergies. In traditional and homeopathic medicine, it is used to support kidney health, gallbladder function, and to manage symptoms of urinary tract irritation. Research into its active alkaloid, berberine, also suggests potential benefits for blood sugar and cholesterol management. However, it is not an FDA-approved treatment for these metabolic conditions. Always consult a healthcare provider before using it for any therapeutic purpose.
The most frequently reported side effects are gastrointestinal in nature, including stomach cramps, diarrhea, and flatulence. When used for skin testing, local redness, swelling, and itching at the application site are common. Some individuals may also experience mild nausea or dizziness shortly after taking oral preparations. These effects are usually temporary and resolve once the substance is discontinued. If side effects persist or worsen, you should contact your doctor.
It is generally advised to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while using Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark. Alcohol can exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and cramping. Furthermore, both alcohol and the alkaloids in the root bark are processed by the liver, and combining them may increase the risk of hepatic strain. Alcohol can also interfere with the blood-sugar-lowering effects of the extract. Consult your pharmacist for specific guidance based on your dosage.
No, Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark is considered likely unsafe during pregnancy. The active alkaloid, berberine, can cross the placenta and has been linked to uterine contractions, which may increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor. Additionally, it can cause a dangerous condition called kernicterus in newborns by displacing bilirubin from brain cells. Pregnant women should avoid all forms of this extract. Discuss safer alternatives with your obstetrician.
The timeframe for effectiveness depends on the intended use. For allergy skin testing, results are visible within 15 to 20 minutes. For homeopathic or metabolic support, it may take 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use before any noticeable changes in symptoms or lab values occur. It is important to follow the recommended schedule provided by your healthcare professional. Do not increase the dose if you do not see immediate results.
Yes, you can typically stop taking Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark suddenly, as it is not known to cause physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms. However, if you were using it to manage a specific condition like high blood sugar, stopping it abruptly may cause those levels to rise again. It is always best to discuss discontinuation with your healthcare provider. They can help you monitor for any return of symptoms. If you experience an allergic reaction, stop use immediately.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular routine. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed one, as this increases the risk of gastrointestinal side effects and toxicity. Setting a daily reminder can help you stay consistent with your regimen. If you miss multiple doses, consult your provider for advice.
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark causes weight gain. In fact, research on its primary component, berberine, suggests it may support weight management by activating AMPK, which helps regulate fat metabolism and glucose levels. Some studies have even indicated a potential for modest weight loss in certain populations. However, it should not be used as a primary weight-loss medication. Any significant weight changes should be discussed with a medical professional.
Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark has several significant drug interactions. It can increase the levels of medications like cyclosporine and certain statins by inhibiting the CYP3A4 enzyme. It may also enhance the effects of blood-sugar-lowering drugs and blood thinners, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia or bleeding. Because of these risks, it is vital to provide your doctor with a full list of your current medications. They will determine if the combination is safe for you.
As a botanical extract, Berberis Vulgaris Root Bark is not available as a 'generic' in the way synthetic drugs are. Instead, it is sold under various brand names as a dietary supplement, homeopathic remedy, or diagnostic allergenic extract. The quality and concentration can vary significantly between manufacturers. Look for products that are third-party tested or standardized to ensure you are receiving a consistent amount of active alkaloids. Your pharmacist can recommend a reputable brand.
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