Sinomenine

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Error creating thumbnail:
Sinomenine


Sinomenine is an alkaloid found in the roots and stems of the climbing plant Sinomenium acutum. It is traditionally used in herbal medicine in East Asia, particularly in China, where it is known as qing feng teng. Sinomenine has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects.

History[edit | edit source]

Sinomenine was first isolated from the Sinomenium acutum plant in 1922 by Japanese scientists. The plant has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat rheumatism and arthritis.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Sinomenine is a morphinan alkaloid, a type of compound that includes many potent analgesics and antitussives. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. Studies suggest that sinomenine may inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulate the activity of T cells, potentially making it useful in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.

Clinical Use[edit | edit source]

In China, sinomenine is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other inflammatory conditions. It is typically administered orally in the form of a capsule. Clinical trials have shown that sinomenine can significantly reduce pain and improve function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Research[edit | edit source]

Research into the potential uses of sinomenine is ongoing. Some studies suggest that it may have neuroprotective effects, potentially making it useful in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Other research is exploring its potential as an anti-cancer agent.

Safety and Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Sinomenine is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. It may also cause liver damage in high doses. As with any supplement, it should be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

See Also[edit | edit source]



WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD