Brimonidine is a drug applied topically to the eyes to treat glaucoma.
Safetychecker Summary
for Brimonidine
(for details about the summarized interactions, read the full article)
 Avoid: Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability—Avoid
these supplements when taking this medication since the supplement may decrease the absorption
and/or activity of the medication in the body. |
Yohimbine* |
| Depletion or interference |
None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known |
| Supportive interaction |
None known |
| Adverse interaction |
None known |
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
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.
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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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2003.