Yohimbe - Sinequan (Doxepin) Interaction
Herbal: Yohimbe
Also Known As: Pausinystalia yohimbe, 11-hydroxy Yohimbine, Coryanthe Yohimbe, Corynanthe Johimbe, Johimbi, Yohimbehe, Yohimbehe Cortex, Yohimbine, Yohimbine HCl, Yohimbinum Muriaticum
Drug: Doxepin
Brand names:
Sinequan, Doxepin, Zonalon
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jun 15, 2025
Interaction Details
Doxepin is classified as belonging to the following category: Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates
Theoretically, yohimbe might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP2D6 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that yohimbine, a constituent of yohimbe bark, inhibits CYP2D6 enzyme activity.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- VandenBrink, B. M., Foti, R. S., Rock, D. A., Wienkers, L. C., and Wahlstrom, J. L. Prediction of CYP2D6 drug interactions from in vitro data: evidence for substrate-dependent inhibition. Drug Metab Dispos. 2012;40(1):47-53.
Interaction Details
Doxepin is classified as belonging to the following category: Tricyclic Antidepressants (Tcas)
Theoretically, taking yohimbe with TCAs can increase adverse effects.
A small clinical study in patients taking TCAs for at least 4 weeks shows that receiving doses of intravenous yohimbine 2.5-20 mg daily for up to 7 days precipitates severe anxiety, agitation, and tremor. The effects of yohimbe bark itself are unclear; oral yohimbe bark contains 0.6% to 1.38% yohimbine, but it is unclear how much is absorbed.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- Betz, J. M., White, K. D., and der Marderosian, A. H. Gas chromatographic determination of yohimbine in commercial yohimbe products. J AOAC Int 1995;78(5):1189-1194.
- Cohen PA, Wang YH, Maller G, DeSouza R, Khan IA. Pharmaceutical quantities of yohimbine found in dietary supplements in the USA. Drug Test Anal. 2015 Sep 22.
- Schmauss M, Laakmann G, Dieterle D. Effects of alpha 2-receptor blockade in addition to tricyclic antidepressants in therapy-resistant depression. J Clin Psychopharmacol. 1988;8(2):108-11.
Yohimbe Overview
Yohimbe is an evergreen tree native to western Africa. The bark of the tree contains a chemical called yohimbine in concentrations ranging from 0.6-1.38%, which has been used in traditional medicine as a natural aphrodisiac and sexual performance enhancer. While widely available as a dietary supplement, yohimbe should be used with caution, as it can have side effects, such as dizziness, increased blood pressure and rapid heart rate.
Doxepin Overview
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Doxepin (Silenor) is used to treat insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep) in people who have trouble staying asleep. Doxepin (Silenor) is in a class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants. It works by slowing activity in the brain to allow sleep.
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Doxepin is also available as a capsule and liquid to treat depression and anxiety. This monograph only gives information about doxepin (Silenor) for insomnia. If you are using this medication for depression or anxiety, read the monograph entitled doxepin (depression, anxiety).
Yohimbe - More Interactions
Yohimbe interacts with 1098 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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