Yohimbine use in a natural setting: effects on posttraumatic stress disorder.
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.
Southwick
S M
SM
VA CT Healthcare System, Psychiatry Service 116A, West Haven 06516, USA.
Morgan
C A
CA
Charney
D S
DS
High
J R
JR
D000317:Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000328:Adult; D001007:Anxiety / Q000139:chemically induced; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009638:Norepinephrine / Q000378:metabolism; D016584:Panic Disorder / Q000139:chemically induced; D011998:Recreation; D012008:Recurrence; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000523:psychology*; D015016:Yohimbine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*
D000317:Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists; D015016:Yohimbine; D009638:Norepinephrine