Herb & supplement monograph

Hypnotherapy Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

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Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Hypnotherapy

0 medications have a known interaction with Hypnotherapy, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

We don’t currently list any known drug interactions for Hypnotherapy. This doesn’t guarantee none exist — always confirm with your pharmacist before combining supplements with your medications.

Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction 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
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Hypnotherapy combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
Monograph

Hypnotherapy: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

The bottom line

Hypnotherapy is a mind-body technique where a trained therapist guides you into a focused, relaxed state to help you change thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. It is not a supplement or herb, and when done by a qualified professional it is generally considered safe. Evidence is strongest for conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and certain types of pain, but results vary from person to person.

Part used
Not applicable (mind-body therapy)
Common forms
Sessions with a trained therapist, self-hypnosis, audio recordings, guided apps
People commonly use it for
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Anxiety and stress
  • Pain management
  • Smoking cessation
  • Sleep problems
  • Habit and weight management

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallLikely safe

Generally safe when guided by a trained, licensed practitioner.

PregnancyPossibly Safe

When hypnotherapy is used appropriately. Use of self-hypnosis during labor following teaching sessions during pregnancy has not been shown to affect b...

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available. However, there is no reason to expect safety issues with hypnotherapy when administered correctly. Also,...

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

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Overview

Hypnotherapy is a type of mind-body therapy. It is not a plant, herb, or supplement that you swallow. Instead, a trained therapist helps you reach a state of deep relaxation and focused attention, sometimes called a trance or hypnotic state.

In this calm, focused state, your mind may be more open to helpful suggestions. The therapist may guide you to imagine soothing images, rethink unhelpful patterns, or feel more in control of symptoms like pain or anxiety. You remain aware and in control the whole time — it is not the same as the dramatic "mind control" shown in movies.

Hypnotherapy is used in clinics, hospitals, and private practices. Some people also learn self-hypnosis or use guided audio recordings to practice on their own.

How it works

Researchers do not fully understand exactly how hypnotherapy works. The leading idea is that the relaxed, focused state changes how the brain processes thoughts, attention, and signals like pain.

During hypnosis, you may become more responsive to gentle suggestions. This may help you shift unhelpful thought patterns, lower stress responses, or change how strongly you notice discomfort. For gut conditions like IBS, it may help calm the connection between the brain and the digestive system, sometimes called the "gut-brain axis."

Because hypnotherapy involves the mind rather than a chemical or active compound, its effects depend a lot on the individual, the skill of the therapist, and how open a person is to the process.

Effectiveness

Does Hypnotherapy work?

Evidence overview · 102 uses evaluated
2 Possibly effective 1 Leans ineffective 99 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.
Possibly Effective Abdominal pain
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Hypnotherapy seems to be beneficial for reducing abdominal pain in children, although it is unclear if specific types of hypnotherapy are preferable.

Possibly Effective Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Hypnotherapy seems to be beneficial for reducing symptoms of IBS in some adults and children.

Possibly Ineffective Parturition
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Practicing self-hypnosis does not seem to reduce complications during labor.

Also studied for 99 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Acne
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for acne, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Aging
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for aging, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Alcohol use disorder
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for alcohol use disorder, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for reducing symptoms of hay fever.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Alopecia areata
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for well-being or hair loss associated with alopecia areata.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Alzheimer disease
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for Alzheimer disease, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Amenorrhea
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for amenorrhea, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, Lou Gehrig's disease)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for ALS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Anorexia nervosa
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for anorexia nervosa, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Arrhythmia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for arrhythmia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Asthma
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for asthma symptoms.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Athletic performance
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy to improve athletic performance, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for eczema, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for ADHD, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Back pain
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for chronic low back pain.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Breast cancer-related hot flashes
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for reducing hot flashes in patients with breast cancer.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Bulimia nervosa
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for bulimia nervosa, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Burns
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for pain or pain-related anxiety in patients with burns.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Cancer-related pain
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for reducing pain in patients with cancer.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Cerebral palsy
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for cerebral palsy, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for reducing CINV.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for CFS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Cognitive function
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy to improve cognitive function in healthy individuals, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Constipation
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for constipation, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for improving recovery from CABG surgery.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Coronary heart disease (CHD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for CHD, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Crohn disease
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial in adolescents with Crohn disease.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Cystic fibrosis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for cystic fibrosis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diabetes
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for diabetes, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dysmenorrhea
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for dysmenorrhea.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Erectile dysfunction (ED)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for ED, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Fibromyalgia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Small clinical studies suggest that hypnotherapy may be beneficial for fibromyalgia, although there is a lack of consistency related to treatment and endpoints in the available research.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Fractures
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy to improve fracture healing, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Furuncles (boils)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for boils, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for GERD, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Gout
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for gout, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hemolytic anemia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for hemolytic anemia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Herpes labialis (cold sores)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for cold sore prevention, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate HIV/AIDS-related peripheral neuropathy
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for HIV/AIDS-related peripheral neuropathy.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Human papillomavirus (HPV)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for HPV, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Huntington disease
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for Huntington disease, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hyperhidrosis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for hyperhidrosis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hypertension
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for hypertension.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hyperthyroidism
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for Grave's disease, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Ichthyosis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for ichthyosis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Infertility
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for infertility, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Insomnia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Small clinical studies suggest that hypnosis may improve some measures of sleep quality in patients with insomnia.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Labor pain
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Research on the use of antenatal hypnotherapy for improving labor pain and reducing the use of analgesics is mixed.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Lactation
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Clinical research suggests that self-hypnosis does not affect lactation initiation or duration.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Lichen planus
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for lichen planus, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Mastocytosis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for mastocytosis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Memory
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy to improve memory, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Meniere disease
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for Meniere disease, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Menopausal symptoms
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for menopausal symptoms.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Mental alertness
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy to improve mental alertness, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for MS.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Muscle strength
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy to improve muscle strength, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Myasthenia gravis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for myasthenia gravis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Narcolepsy
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for narcolepsy, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Nausea and vomiting
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for nausea and vomiting, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Neurodermatitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for neurodermatitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Nocturnal enuresis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for nocturnal enuresis in children.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Obesity
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial as an adjunct therapy for weight loss.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Oral mucositis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for oral mucositis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Osteoarthritis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial as an adjunct therapy for osteoarthritis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Overactive bladder
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for overactive bladder, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Panic disorder
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for panic disorder, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Parkinson disease
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for Parkinson disease, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Peptic ulcers
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for maintenance of peptic ulcer remission, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Perioperative anxiety
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for perioperative anxiety, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Small clinical studies suggest that hypnotherapy may improve some symptoms of PTSD.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Postherpetic neuralgia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for postherpetic neuralgia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Postoperative pain
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for reducing postoperative pain.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Postpartum depression
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for preventing postpartum depression.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for improving nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for PMS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Pruritus
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for pruritus, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Psoriasis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for improving symptoms in patients with plaque psoriasis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Radiation dermatitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for radiation dermatitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Raynaud syndrome
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for Raynaud syndrome, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Restless legs syndrome (RLS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for RLS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for RA, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Rosacea
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for rosacea, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Schizophrenia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for schizophrenia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Scoliosis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for scoliosis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Sexual dysfunction
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for dyspareunia, vaginismus, and other types of sexual dysfunction, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for these conditions.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Sickle cell disease
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for reducing pain related to sickle cell disease; the available research is conflicting.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Social anxiety disorder
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for social anxiety disorder, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Stress
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Preliminary clinical research suggests that hypnotherapy is beneficial for reducing feelings of stress.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Stuttering
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for stuttering and other speech disorders, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for these conditions.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Temporomandibular disorders (TMD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for pain associated with TMD, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Tension headache
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for tension headache in children.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Tinnitus
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for tinnitus; the available research is conflicting.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Tobacco and nicotine dependence
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for smoking cessation when used alone or in conjunction with other therapies.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Trichotillomania
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for trichotillomania, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Ulcerative colitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if hypnotherapy is beneficial for ulcerative colitis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Urticaria
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for urticaria, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Vitiligo
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for vitiligo, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Warts
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using hypnotherapy for warts, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hypnotherapy for this purpose.

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

When provided by a trained, licensed professional, hypnotherapy is generally considered safe for most people. It does not involve medications or physical products.

People with certain serious mental health conditions, such as psychosis or severe dissociative disorders, should use caution and only work with a qualified mental health professional. Hypnotherapy should not be used to try to "recover" lost memories, as this can sometimes create false or distorted memories.

During pregnancy, hypnotherapy is sometimes used for relaxation and childbirth preparation, but you should work only with a qualified provider experienced in this area. While breastfeeding, there is little direct risk because nothing is ingested. As always, talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, especially if you have a mental health condition.

Side effects

Hypnotherapy is usually well tolerated. Side effects are uncommon and generally mild.

Some people may experience temporary effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, headache, anxiety, or feeling emotional during or after a session. In rare cases, distressing thoughts or memories may surface, which is why working with a trained professional is important.

If you feel worse, more anxious, or distressed after sessions, stop and discuss it with your provider.

Hypnotherapy: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Hypnotherapy from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Hypnotherapy seems to be well tolerated; however, a thorough evaluation of adverse effects in clinical research is lacking.

Most Common Adverse Effects:

Anxiety, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, insomnia, and nausea.

Reports by condition
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no standard "dose" for hypnotherapy because it is a therapy, not a substance. Treatment is usually given as a series of sessions with a trained therapist, and the number of sessions varies based on your goals and the condition being treated.

Many programs involve several weekly sessions, and you may also practice self-hypnosis or use guided recordings between visits. Follow the plan recommended by your qualified provider. If you are considering hypnotherapy, ask your doctor or pharmacist for a referral to a licensed, properly trained practitioner.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Hypnotherapy & Pregnancy

Possibly Safe

When hypnotherapy is used appropriately. Use of self-hypnosis during labor following teaching sessions during pregnancy has not been shown to affect birthweight, well-being of the newborn, admission or re-admission for neonatal care, maternal stay in the hospital, readmission to hospital, lactation establishment, or ability to care for the infant. However, the use of hypnotherapy should not delay the time to diagnosis or treatment with more proven therapies.

  1. Werner A, Uldbjerg N, Zachariae R, Nohr EA. Effect of self-hypnosis on duration of labor and maternal and neonatal outcomes: a randomized controlled trial. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2013;92(7):816-23.
  2. Madden K, Middleton P, Cyna AM, Matthewson M, Jones L. Hypnosis for pain management during labour and childbirth. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;2016(5):CD009356.

Hypnotherapy & Breastfeeding

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available. However, there is no reason to expect safety issues with hypnotherapy when administered correctly. Also, use of hypnotherapy should not delay the time to diagnosis or treatment with more proven therapies.

DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 3 references that drive our Hypnotherapy monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. Werner A, Uldbjerg N, Zachariae R, Nohr EA. Effect of self-hypnosis on duration of labor and maternal and neonatal outcomes: a randomized controlled trial. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2013;92(7):816-23. PubMed
  2. Madden K, Middleton P, Cyna AM, Matthewson M, Jones L. Hypnosis for pain management during labour and childbirth. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;2016(5):CD009356. PubMed
  3. Lam TH, Chung KF, Lee CT, Yeung WF, Yu BY. Hypnotherapy for insomnia: A randomized controlled trial comparing generic and disease-specific suggestions. Complement Ther Med. 2018;41:231-239. PubMed
Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

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

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Hypnotherapy: Common Questions

What is Hypnotherapy used for, and does it work?
People use Hypnotherapy for many reasons, but the evidence varies by use. According to the Natural Medicines database, there is at least some clinical evidence supporting Hypnotherapy for Abdominal pain and Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). For most other uses it has been studied for, the evidence is currently insufficient to rate. See the graded list on this page, and always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Does Hypnotherapy interact with prescription medications?
We do not currently list any known drug interactions for Hypnotherapy. This does not guarantee that none exist, so always confirm with your pharmacist before combining it with your medications.
How are Hypnotherapy interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Hypnotherapy with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Hypnotherapy interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
What is Hypnotherapy used for?
People use it for irritable bowel syndrome, pain, anxiety, stress, sleep problems, and habits like smoking. The evidence is strongest for IBS and certain types of pain.
Is Hypnotherapy safe?
For most people, it is considered safe when guided by a trained, licensed practitioner. People with serious mental health conditions should use it only under professional care.
Will I lose control or be made to do things during hypnosis?
No. Despite how it looks in movies and stage shows, you stay aware and in control during clinical Hypnotherapy, and you cannot be forced to do anything against your will.
Can I do Hypnotherapy on my own?
Yes, many people learn self-hypnosis or use guided audio recordings, but for medical conditions it is best to start with a qualified therapist.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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