Evidence supporting the use of: Tetrahydropalmatine
For the health condition: Addictions (tobacco smoking or chewing)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Tetrahydropalmatine (THP) is an alkaloid found in several plants, notably Corydalis yanhusuo, and has a history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for pain and sedation. Recent scientific studies have explored its potential in supporting addiction treatment, particularly for substances like tobacco and opioids. The rationale is based on THP’s action as a dopamine receptor antagonist, specifically targeting D1 and D2 receptors, which are involved in the brain’s reward pathways implicated in addiction.

Preclinical studies in animal models have shown that THP can reduce drug-seeking behavior and symptoms of withdrawal. For instance, research published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence (2014) demonstrated that THP attenuated the rewarding effects of nicotine and reduced relapse behavior in rats. Small human studies, mainly from China, have investigated its effects on opioid withdrawal and craving, but data on tobacco addiction in humans is still limited and of modest quality.

Overall, while there is a plausible scientific basis and some preliminary evidence, the quality and quantity of clinical trials are insufficient for strong recommendations. THP is not widely recognized in mainstream medical guidelines for addiction treatment. Therefore, its use for tobacco addiction is primarily supported by preclinical and limited clinical evidence rather than robust, large-scale human studies.

More about Tetrahydropalmatine
More about Addictions (tobacco smoking or chewing)

Products containing Tetrahydropalmatine

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.