A randomized clinical trial assessed the effects of berberine on visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and liver fat in 337 non-diabetic patients with obesity and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, conducted across 11 hospitals in China. Participants were assigned to either 1 g of daily oral berberine or placebo for six months, alongside lifestyle interventions. Results showed no significant reduction in VAT or liver fat content. Berberine did, however, lower LDL cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, and hs-CRP levels without affecting other metabolic parameters, thus demonstrating a favorable safety profile.
1. Berberine did not reduce VAT or liver fat in non-diabetic patients with MASLD. 2. 337 patients participated in the trial across 11 hospitals. 3. The trial lasted for 6 months with a 1 g daily dosage of berberine. 4. Significant reductions in LDL cholesterol and hs-CRP levels were noted. 5. Safety profile of berberine was found to be excellent, with no serious adverse events reported.
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