Yohimbine is the active alkaloid in yohimbe---a plant used in alternative medicine for its stimulant effects. Despite its natural origins, yohimbine can cause dangerous health effects in some users. Understanding the effects of yohimbe is necessary for safer use. To prevent adverse health effects, consult your doctor before using supplements containing yohimbine.
Uses
Yohimbe is a stimulant that dilates blood vessels throughout the body. Yohimbine, the active component of yohimbe, occurs naturally in the bark of the African Pausinystalia yohimbe tree and a few other plant species. Yohimbine can be found both in over-the-counter supplements containing yohimbe and prescription medications for impotence. According to Medline Plus, yohimbe may also be used to treat diabetic nerve pain, low blood pressure, chest pain and depression.
Side Effects
Yohimbine can cause unwanted side effects in some users. According to Medline Plus, irregular heart beat, seizure, heart attack and kidney failure have occurred in people using yohimbe. Less serious side effects like tremors, dizziness, stomach upset and anxiety may occur even at typical doses. Mayo Clinic warns that yohimbe can also cause harmful interactions with some prescription drugs.
Overdose
While negative effects may occur at any dose, large doses of yohimbine can result in potentially fatal effects. Medline Plus lists paralysis, heart problems and death as potential complications of yohimbine poisoning. Combining yohimbine with drugs known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) can also result in life-threatening interactions. In one case, a user developed a progressive, lupus-like reaction involving allergic symptoms, scaly skin rash and kidney failure after taking a regular, onetime dose of yohimbe. While rare, users should be aware of the potential for similar reactions when taking yohimbine.
Prevention/Solution
Avoiding yohimbine is the only way to prevent any chance of adverse reactions. When using yohimbine, follow dosing instructions closely and avoid driving until you know how the substance affects you. Ask your doctor before using yohimbe supplements if you have a heart condition or take prescription medications like stimulants or blood pressure drugs. Like other supplements, yohimbe is not tested for quality or purity by the FDA before marketing. To help ensure safety, only buy yohimbe supplements from reputable sources. Stop using yohimbine immediately and seek emergency medical attention if you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing or other severe side effects.
