Can I take Berberine with Glutamine?

Understanding the interactions, benefits, and safety of combining these two powerful supplements.

Berberine
+
Glutamine

Short answer

We found no documented interaction between Berberine and Glutamine in the sources below. That isn't proof the combination is right for you: check each one's cautions, and ask your pharmacist if you take medication.

Berberine

What it is: A compound from plants such as barberry and goldenseal, used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine.

What the research says: It may lower cholesterol, triglycerides and blood sugar, but the effect may be small and lifestyle changes are still needed.

Cautions

  • Mild side effects can include appetite loss, upset stomach, diarrhea, constipation and rash.
  • Not for pregnancy or breastfeeding: it may harm newborns.

Medicines to check

  • Immune-suppressing drugs such as tacrolimus or cyclosporin: berberine may raise their levels
  • Some diabetes drugs (sulfonylureas)
  • Many prescription drugs processed by the liver: berberine may make them less effective
  • Bosutinib (a cancer drug)

In Holitro: Berberine 500mg (500 mg per capsule)

Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, About Herbs: Berberine (updated June 2023)

Glutamine

What it is: An amino acid the body makes and uses for energy and to build protein.

What the research says: It has little or no benefit for strength or recovery. It's studied mainly in cancer care and after surgery.

Cautions

  • Studies report no side effects at up to 45 g a day for several weeks; reported side effects elsewhere include headache and nausea.
  • Don't confuse it with glutamate, which is a different substance.

In Holitro: Glutamine (750 mg per capsule)

Sources: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Dietary Supplements for Exercise and Athletic Performance (updated March 2021); Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, About Herbs: Glutamine (updated September 2026)

Check with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you take medication.

Check your stack — free

Educational information only, not medical advice. This reflects general ingredient overlap, not a personalized safety review. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before combining supplements, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or nursing, or manage a health condition. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.

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