From the Guidelines
Yes, yohimbe is considered a stimulant due to its active compound yohimbine, which acts as a central nervous system stimulant. Yohimbe is derived from the bark of the African yohimbe tree (Pausinystalia yohimbe) and contains yohimbine, which works primarily by blocking alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, increasing norepinephrine levels in the body, and leading to stimulant effects including increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure 1.
Some of the key effects of yohimbe include:
- Increased heart rate
- Elevated blood pressure
- Heightened alertness
- Increased motor activity
- Irritability
- Tremor
It is essential to note that yohimbe can cause significant side effects, particularly in individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart conditions, high blood pressure, anxiety disorders, diabetes, or kidney problems 1. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise caution when considering the use of yohimbe, especially in these populations.
In terms of dosage, typical supplement doses range from 5-30 mg of yohimbine, though standardization varies widely between products. However, due to the potential risks and side effects associated with yohimbe, it is essential to prioritize caution and consider alternative options, especially in real-life clinical practice. The potential risks and side effects of yohimbe outweigh its potential benefits, and its use should be approached with caution.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Yohimbe as a Stimulant
- Yohimbine, the primary active ingredient in yohimbe, is a naturally occurring alkaloid that induces increases in sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation, effectively initiating "fight or flight" responses 2.
- Yohimbine acts as an α2-adrenergic receptor antagonist, increasing norepinephrine release from sympathetic neurons, which can lead to increased alertness and decreased fatigue 2.
- The increase in norepinephrine release caused by yohimbine can also lead to increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure and pulse rate, as well as increased impulsive errors and impulsive response bias 3.
- Yohimbine's stimulant effects are also evident in its ability to enhance the effect of sildenafil on erectile process in rats, suggesting a potential synergistic effect between the two substances 4.
Mechanism of Action
- Yohimbine's primary mechanism of action is through its antagonism of α2-adrenergic receptors, which increases the release of norepinephrine from sympathetic neurons 2, 3.
- The increase in norepinephrine release leads to a range of physiological and psychological effects, including increased sympathetic activation, adaptive hemodynamic changes, increased alertness, and decreased fatigue 2.
- Yohimbine's effects on norepinephrine release and sympathetic activation are consistent with its potential to enhance physical performance and improve exercise responses 2.
Safety and Efficacy
- While yohimbine has been shown to be effective in improving exercise performance and erectile dysfunction, its use is not without risk, particularly at high doses 2, 5.
- Yohimbine has high interindividual variability in bioavailability and can be deceptively potent, leading to serious side effects if not used carefully 2.
- Low doses of yohimbine are generally considered tolerable, but safety concerns remain outstanding, and temperance should be used when using yohimbine and similar sympathomimetics 2.