Investigation of the absorption mechanism and interactions among active components in Xiexin decoction

OBJECTIVE To investigate the absorption mechanism and interactions among active components in Xiexin decoction(baicalin,rhein and berberine hydrochloride) by Caco-2 cell monolayer model.METHODS The transport process of baicalin,rhein and berberine hydrochloride from apical side(AP) to basolateral side(BL)was studied,the cumulative amount in the basolateral side was measured by HPLC,then the apparent permeability coefficient(Papp)was calculated and the Papp values before and after compatibility was compared to discuss the drug transport mechanism and interaction.RESULTS The absorption and transport of active components in Xiexin decoction(baicalin,rhein and berberine hydrochloride) was passive diffusion as the dominating process in Caco-2 cell monolayer model.There was no significanl different between the Papp values before and after compatibility.CONCLUSION The absorption and transport of active components in Xiexin decoction was passive diffusion as the dominating process,and there was no drug interaction between baicalin,rhein and berberine hydrochloride when they transported from apical side to basolateral side.