Arbutin
Medicinal Chemistry
Molecular Weight
272.25
Molecular Formula
C12H16O7
IUPAC Name
4-hydroxyphenyl beta-D-glucopyranoside
Pharmacognosy
Biological Source
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Bearberry)
Active Constituents
Arbutin, Methylarbutin
Pharmacology & Synthesis
Mechanism of Action
Hydrolyzed to hydroquinone in the alkaline environment of the urinary tract; acts as a tyrosinase inhibitor topically.
Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
A: Well absorbed orally.
D: Wide distribution.
M: Hepatic/GI cleavage to hydroquinone, conjugated in liver.
E: Renal.
Pharmacodynamics
Antibacterial action in the urinary tract; skin-lightening agent.
Synthesis Pathway
Biosynthesized from hydroquinone and UDP-glucose.
Safety, Warnings & Interactions
Adverse Effects
Nausea, vomiting, tinnitus, cyanosis (at high doses).
Contraindications
Pregnancy, renal disorders.
Drug Interactions
Urine acidifiers (decreases antibacterial efficacy).
Pharmaceutics & Compendia
Dosage Forms
Capsules, Topical creams
Official Compendia
BP