Yohimbe
(Pausinystalia
yohimbe)
General Description:
Yohimbe is a West African tree native to Congo, Cameroon, and
Gabon. The main ingredient is Yohimbine,
is an alkaloid found
in the roots. .
Part
Used:
Roots and bark
Uses:
erectile dysfunction (conflicting studies)
impotence
orthostatic hypotension
clonidine overdose
Action:
Yohimbine
is the alkaloid that is chemically active and responsible for the
effects of yohimbe. It is an
alpha-2 adrenergic receptor.
CNS –
stimulant effect
Periphery-
releases norepinephrine, to increase penile blood flow
Dosage:
15-20 mg. per day
Precautions/Adverse Reactions:
In clinical trials, it
did not effect the sexual performance of sexually functioning men.
It does have a high-risk–to benefit ratio because of side effects:
nervousness, irritability, dizziness, headache, sweating, hypertension,
tachycardia, psychoses, hallucinations, and one report of renal failure,
and a lupus-like
syndrome.
Interactions with other Drugs: OTC stimulants (caffeine,
phenylephedrine, phenylpropanolamine), SSRI's, Tricyclic antidepressants,
and foods containing tyramine.
Contraindications:
Renal disease, hepatic disease, psychiatric
disorders,
and uncontrolled hypertension.
Nursing Considerations:
Yohimbe
can counteract the benefits of antihypertensive meds.
Monitor
for CNS and cardiac effects.
Do not use with
Clonidine. It competes with the receptors and can cause a
hypertensive crisis.
Yohimbe can counteract mood-modifying meds such as
antidepressants.
Warn patients not to use
concurrently.
Due to a weak MAOI activity, do
not eat tyramine
containing foods, or decongestants or
stimulants.
Avoid caffeine.
Yohimbine is used widely despite that it does not have FDA approval. It has been
on their unsafe list since 1977
Standard dose is 5.4 mg only by
prescription.
Yohimbe is a dietary supplement, often in
combination with other herbs.
Recommended to be used under
the care of a physician.
(References)
