Effect of Berberine on Islet β-cell Function in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (Damp-Heat Type)

Objective To observe the effect of berberine to islet β-cell function in type 2 diabetes mellitus (damp-heat type). Methods 60 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (damp-heat type) were randomly divided into 2 groups, under basic treatment of 2 weeks with metformin, the treatment group was given berberine. After 8 weeks, the changes in the levels of blood glucose, insulin, HbA1c, CRP and the grade of traditional Chinese medicine individual event symptom and general integral symptom were observed. Apply the formular to evaluate the pancreas's function. Results Each group had notable difference before and after the experiment in many aspects, especially in treatment group. There was a notable difference in 2 groups. Conclusion Berberine has obvious effect on increasing insulin releasing level, improving insulin sensibility, lightening insulin resistance and improving islet β-cell function.