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Tetrandrine is a bis-benzylisoquinoline alkaloid naturally found in the root of the plant Radix stephaniatetrandrae. It possesses a range of pharmacological effects, making it a subject of interest in various medical applications.

Anti-Inflammatory and Immunologic Effects:Tetrandrine exhibits significant anti-inflammatory properties and impacts immune responses. This includes the inhibition of mast cell degranulation, a key process in allergic reactions.

Anti-Arrhythmic Effect: It has a quinidine-like effect on the heart, which can be useful in treating certain types of cardiac arrhythmias.

Vasodilation and Blood Pressure:Tetrandrine acts as a vasodilator, helping to reduce blood pressure, potentially beneficial for hypertensive conditions.

Liver Disease and Liver Cancer: There is potential for tetrandrine in treating liver disease and liver cancer, with studies suggesting its efficacy in these areas.

Ophthalmology Applications: In ophthalmology, tetrandrine might be useful in preventing excessive scarring or fibrosis in the conjunctiva following trabeculectomy or in cases of severe conjunctival inflammation.

Treatment of Silicosis, Cirrhosis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis: Due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrogenic actions, tetrandrine could be beneficial in the treatment of lung silicosis, liver cirrhosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Ebola Virus Research:Tetrandrine has shown promise in inhibiting the entry of the Ebola virus into host cells in vitro and has demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in preliminary studies involving mice.

Potential Treatment for Tinnitus: There have been studies and patents filed regarding the use of tetrandrine as a possible treatment for tinnitus.

At the cellular level, tetrandrine non-selectively inhibits calcium channel activity and induces a G1 blockade of the cell cycle and apoptosis in various cell types. This results in immunosuppressive, anti-proliferative, and free radical scavenging effects. Additionally, tetrandrine enhances hepatocyte glycogen synthesis, increasing glucose utilization and potentially lowering plasma glucose levels.

The wide range of biological activities attributed to tetrandrine underscores its potential as a therapeutic agent in various medical conditions. However, its application in clinical settings requires further research and validation through clinical trials to establish its efficacy and safety for human use.

GHS Hazard Statements

• H300 (50%): Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

• H302 (50%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

Chemical and Physical Properties

Source:PubChem