Drug reference

yohimbine

α2-selective adrenergic receptor antagonist (competitive) · Alpha Blocker

α2-selective adrenergic receptor antagonist (competitive)Alpha BlockerATC G04BE04

CDSCO approvedATC G04BE04

EXCRETION

—

not curated

INTERACTIONS

—

none in our sources

PREGNANCY

—

not curated

Mechanism

Yohimbine is a competitive antagonist selective for α2 adrenergic receptors. It readily enters the CNS, increasing blood pressure and heart rate, and enhancing motor activity and tremors. It also antagonizes effects of 5HT.

Indications

reversal of xylazine anesthesia (veterinary medicine)male sexual dysfunction (past use, less effective than PDE5 inhibitors)diabetic neuropathy (potential use)postural hypotension (potential use)Psychogenic impotence (psychological effect)

Side effects

Common

increased blood pressureincreased heart ratetremorsenhanced motor activityExcitationTremorADH release (antidiuresis)NauseaVomitingCongestion in genitals

Related guidelines

Painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy

AAN · Neurology · 2022

Benign prostatic hyperplasia

AUA · Urology · 2018

Functional (psychogenic non-epileptic) seizures

AAN · Neurology · 2026

Beta-blockers in hypertension

MOHFW · Cardiology · 2024

Diabetic retinopathy

RSSDI · Ophthalmology · 2023

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Sources: KD Tripathi 7e, Goodman & Gilman 14e·Verified: 2026-05-10 · House clinical team