Yombe (
Yohimbine) is an alkaloid found in the pausinytalia yohimbe. In the form of yohimbine hydrochloride has been used to treat erectile dysfunction. For years this was the first line of defense for most urologists. Presently with the advent of newer drugs in the erectile dysfunction arena, combined with the fact that its efficacy is questionable, its use has greatly declined. It continues to be popular in the over-the-counter supplement world, in other forms and is touted to be equivalent to some of the more efficacious medications. Other uses have been to increase libido, again results are questionable.
Origin
Yohimbine is and alkaloid found in the pausinystalia yohimbe ( West African evergreen) In its original form it was used as an aphrodisiac. Use of the yohimbe bark has variable results secondary to the fact that it has inconsistent concentrations of the alkaloid. It is not until the bark is treated and the alkaloid is removed that you can quantify the dosage.
Contraindications
Yohimbine is used only in males and should not be used in individuals with the following diseases
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Severe depression
Dosage
The traditional starting dosage is 5.4mg orally three times a day. Patients should be reassured that increases in erectile function are often noted after three weeks of treatment. One should discontinue the drug if they experience increased blood pressure, severe anxiety, insomnia, rapid heart rate, or severe irritability and consult their doctor.
Drug interactions
- MAO inhibitors
- Antidepressants
- Antihypertensives
- Dietary supplements
Yohimbine in Females
The research on yohimbine use by females to increase libido is very limited. Much more research is needed to prove its safety and efficacy in females
Supplements
Due to the fact that the bark from the African evergreen tree (pausinystlia yohimbe) has variable concentrations of yohmbe alkaloid its use in supplements has extremely poor results as opposed to yohimbine hydrochloride ( the prescription form) and its use is not recommended.
Related articles: Â “Erectile Dysfunction“, “Good Blood Flow Means Better Sex”, and “Male Menopause Symptoms“
