Evidence supporting the use of: Tetrahydropalmatine
For the health condition: Addictions (drugs)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Tetrahydropalmatine (THP) is an alkaloid found in several plants, including Corydalis yanhusuo. Its use for addiction, including drug addiction, is supported primarily by early-stage scientific studies, mostly in animal models, with some limited human trials. Preclinical investigations suggest that THP acts as a dopamine receptor antagonist, particularly at D1 and D2 receptors, which are implicated in the brain’s reward pathways associated with addiction. Animal studies have demonstrated that THP can reduce drug-seeking behavior and attenuate withdrawal symptoms from substances such as opiates and stimulants. A few small clinical studies in China have tested THP for opioid withdrawal, reporting some effectiveness in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, but the methodological quality and sample sizes are limited. THP is not widely used in Western medicine for addiction, and it is not approved by major regulatory agencies for this purpose. Nevertheless, the compound is sometimes referenced in traditional Chinese medicine as part of herbal formulas used for pain and calming effects, which may overlap with substance use disorder management. Overall, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary evidence for THP in the context of addiction, high-quality, large-scale human trials are lacking. Therefore, the evidence supporting its use is weak to moderate and should be interpreted with caution.

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