We are pleased to announce the publication of a new scientific study on ToBeRock®, our high-bioavailability food supplement based on berberine and tocotrienols, in the peer-reviewed journal Scientia Pharmaceutica.
The research, carried out in collaboration with:
University of Turin – Department of Drug Science and Technology
University of Pisa – Department of Pharmacy
SIFNut – Italian Society of Nutraceutical Formulators
represents a valuable contribution to the clinical documentation of the product in the context of nutritional strategies for metabolic support.
A real-world study conducted in Italian community pharmacies
The study investigated the response of 60 adult participants with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) — defined as fasting blood glucose between 100 and 125 mg/dL — to a daily supplementation with ToBeRock®, under the supervision of trained pharmacists in a real-world setting.
Key features of the study
Design: Retrospective, observational, pilot study
Setting: Three Italian community pharmacies
Duration: 8 weeks
Population: Adults aged 40–70 years with BMI 25–32 kg/m²
Intervention: Daily intake of 1 or 2 capsules of ToBeRock®
Measurements were collected at baseline, after 4 weeks, and at the end of 8 weeks using certified point-of-care instruments available in pharmacies.
Parameters monitored
Participants underwent regular assessments for the following parameters:
Fasting plasma glucose (FPG)
Lipid profile (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides)
Blood pressure (systolic and diastolic)
Oxidative stress biomarkers (FORT, FORD, REDOX Index)
Liver enzymes (ALT, AST)
The data collection was centralized and all procedures complied with privacy and ethical standards. The supplement was well tolerated and showed a compliance rate over 95%.
Main findings of the study
After 8 weeks of supplementation, the study reported the following trends:
Favorable changes in fasting glucose and lipid values in both dosage groups
Improved oxidative balance, as reflected in FORT and FORD tests
Positive trends in blood pressure values, with mild but consistent reductions
Excellent tolerability, with no adverse events reported
Some results were more pronounced in the higher-dosage group, indicating a potential dose–response effect worthy of further investigation.
The technology behind ToBeRock®
ToBeRock® features a self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) designed to enhance the intestinal solubility and absorption of berberine, a compound known for its low bioavailability.
The presence of tocotrienols supports cellular uptake and antioxidant activity, offering a multi-faceted approach to support metabolic balance within a healthy lifestyle.
An innovative prevention model in community pharmacies
This study highlights the potential role of community pharmacists as first-line players in early-stage metabolic screening and nutraceutical support.
With appropriate training and validated diagnostic tools, pharmacies can actively contribute to preventive health strategies, especially in subclinical or borderline metabolic conditions.
