.
Brimonidine is a drug applied topically to the eyes to treat glaucoma.
Interactions with Herbs
Yohimbine
The active ingredients in yohimbine can block the actions of brimonidine in certain human
tissues,1 thus reducing the drug’s beneficial effects. Adequate human studies
involving the eye are lacking, and until more information is available, yohimbine should be
avoided in people using brimonidine.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Alcohol
Although human studies are lacking, preliminary studies suggest alcohol may enhance the
effects of brimonidine.2 Until more is known, individuals using brimonidine should
avoid alcoholic beverages.
Summary of Interactions for Brimonidine
| Depletion or interference | None known |
|---|---|
| Adverse interaction | None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | Yohimbine* |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Berlan M, LeVerge R, Galitzky J, LeCorre P. Alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonist potencies of two hydroxylated metabolites of yohimbine. Br J Pharmacol 1993;108:927–32.
2. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 492–3.
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