A popular prescription drug, yohimbine hydrochloride is a potent stimulant commonly used as a treatment for erectile dysfunction in men. Yohimbine HCl appears in trace amounts as a natural component of yohimbe bark; over-the-counter yohimbe extracts may contain low to moderate amounts of this powerful drug. While yohimbine HCl is a highly effective treatment, it is associated with many significant side effects. Anyone interested in taking yohimbine HCl or yohimbe bark extract should consult a qualified health-care provider.
Changes in Heart Rate
According to the Mayo Clinic, changes in heart rate are relatively common in people taking yohimbine HCl. Because of the drug's stimulant effects, it may cause a rise in heart rate and blood pressure.
Psychiatric Effects
People with anxiety disorders should use yohimbine products only under the guidance of a health-care provider. According to the National Institutes of Health, yohimbine HCl can trigger panic attacks, anxiety, manic episodes and psychosis in people with pre-existing mental illness. Nervousness and irritability are also relatively common effects.
Bleeding Risk
The National Institutes of Health notes that high doses of yohimbine HCl may alter platelet function and cause a sudden drop in the number of white blood cells. This can increase a person's risk of a hemorrhagic episode or serious infection.
Urinary Problems
Rarely, yohimbine HCl may cause urinary problems, according to the National Institutes of Health. Yohimbine HCl may cause painful urination, excessive urination or kidney failure. People with pre-existing kidney disease should avoid yohimbe and yohimbine HCl.
Overdose
When taken in massive doses, yohimbine HCl can cause a life-threatening reaction. Symptoms of yohimbine overdose include paralysis, seizures, cardiac arrhythmia and death. The National Institutes of Health notes that beta blockers may defend against the toxicity of yohimbine HCl.
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