Yohimbine use in a natural setting: effects on posttraumatic stress disorder.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Numerous laboratory-based studies have shown that chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with alterations in catecholamines. In a recent neuroendocrine challenge study, IV yohimbine caused exaggerated subjective, behavioral, cardiovascular and catecholamine responses among combat veterans with PTSD compared to healthy controls. Yohimbine is an alpha-2-adrenergic receptor antagonist that activates noradrenergic neurons.

METHODS:

This report describes the experience of 4 individuals with PTSD who took over-the-counter oral yohimbine that they had purchased from a health food store or pharmacy.

RESULTS:

All 4 subjects experienced a marked exacerbation of anxiety/panic and PTSD-specific symptoms immediately after ingesting yohimbine in a natural setting.

CONCLUSIONS:

The response in these individuals closely resembled the response observed after IV yohimbine in combat veterans with PTSD. The present cases occurred in a natural setting and thus complement laboratory-based findings. The authors caution against the recreational or medical use of yohimbine in individuals who have PTSD.

• Authors: S M Southwick, C A Morgan 3rd, D S Charney, J R High
• Journal: Biological psychiatry (Biol Psychiatry) Vol. 46 Issue 3 Pg. 442-4 (Aug 01 1999) ISSN: 0006-3223 [Print] United States
• PMID: 10435213 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Comparative Study, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists
• Yohimbine
• Norepinephrine

Topics

• Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Adult
• Anxiety (chemically induced)
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Norepinephrine (metabolism)
• Panic Disorder (chemically induced)
• Recreation
• Recurrence
• Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic (psychology)
• Yohimbine (administration & dosage, adverse effects)