Yohimbe - Flagyl (Metronidazole) 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: Metronidazole
Brand names:
Flagyl, Protostat, Metronidazole, Nidazol, Trikacide, MetroGel, Flagyl IV, Metronidazole Redi-Infusion, Flagyl IV RTU, Metro IV, Anabact, Metrosa, Metrotop, Noritate, Rozex Cream, Rozex Gel, Zyomet
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 18, 2025
Interaction Details
Metronidazole is classified as belonging to the following category: Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Inhibitors
Theoretically, CYP3A4 inhibitors might increase the levels and adverse effects of yohimbine, a constituent of yohimbe bark.
In vitro and clinical research shows that the yohimbe bark constituent, yohimbine, is metabolized by CYP3A4 enzymes. Theoretically, drugs that inhibit CYP3A4 might increase the levels and adverse effects of yohimbine.
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
- Le Corre P, Parmer RJ, Kailasam MT, et al. Human sympathetic activation by alpha2-adrenergic blockade with yohimbine: Bimodal, epistatic influence of cytochrome P450-mediated drug metabolism. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2004;76(2):139-53.
- Bharucha AE, Skaar T, Andrews CN, et al Relationship of cytochrome P450 pharmacogenetics to the effects of yohimbine on gastrointestinal transit and catecholamines in healthy subjects. Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2008;20(8):891-9.
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.
Metronidazole Overview
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Metronidazole capsules and tablets are used to treat infections of the reproductive system, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, skin, heart, bone, joint, lung, blood, nervous system, and other areas of the body. Metronidazole capsules and tablets are also used to treat sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Metronidazole extended-release (long-acting) tablets are used to treat bacterial vaginosis (an infection caused by too much of certain types of harmful bacteria in the vagina) in women. Metronidazole is in a class of medications called nitroimidazole antimicrobials. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
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Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.
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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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
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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