Overview
Black pepper extract, primarily standardized to piperine (an alkaloid responsible for its bioactive properties), is commonly used as a bioavailability enhancer in dietary supplements. Piperine has been shown to inhibit drug-metabolizing enzymes (e.g., CYP3A4, P-glycoprotein) and enhance the absorption of various nutrients and phytochemicals, including curcumin, selenium, and beta-carotene [1]. While not directly therapeutic in most contexts, its primary clinical value lies in improving the pharmacokinetics of co-administered compounds. Some preclinical studies suggest potential neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant-like effects, though human clinical evidence remains limited and primarily indirect [2][3]. Further research is needed to establish direct health benefits in humans.
Dosage Guide
Therapeutic Doses
For treatment of specific conditions
Special Forms
Alternative forms for specific needs
Used to enhance absorption of nutrients and phytochemicals
Clinical Notes
- Piperine may increase the bioavailability of certain medications (e.g., anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, chemotherapy agents), increasing risk of toxicity
- Avoid concurrent use with drugs that have narrow therapeutic windows (e.g., digoxin, phenytoin, cyclosporine)
- Limited safety data in pregnancy and lactation; avoid high-dose supplementation
- May inhibit hepatic and intestinal metabolism via CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein inhibition
Research
Highlights challenges in clinical trials of herbal treatments, including issues with standardization and blinding, relevant to black pepper extract formulations.
Examined chamomile extract with potential mood benefits; black pepper extract was not studied but often used in herbal formulations for enhanced absorption.
Discusses broad biological and pharmacological activities of plant extracts, including those like black pepper with bioavailability-enhancing properties.
Assessed research volume on popular herbal remedies in the US, noting gaps in clinical data for many botanicals including pepper derivatives.
Studied capsinoids and fermented red pepper paste for blood pressure; not directly related to black pepper (Piper nigrum) or piperine.
Systematic review on herbal medicine for low back pain; black pepper not specifically evaluated.
Reviewed herbal treatments for BPH; black pepper extract not included.
Discussed risks of herbal supplements in transplant patients; notes potential for herb-drug interactions, relevant to piperine's effect on drug metabolism.
