Drug interactions
Melatonin + Yohimbine
Severity: Minor
Melatonin and Yohimbine: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Melatonin has sedative effects while yohimbine is an alpha-2 antagonist that increases sympathetic activity and alertness. They may oppose each other, so melatonin may be less effective for sleep and yohimbine may cause more anxiety or insomnia. No serious toxicity is expected.
What this interaction means in plain words
Melatonin and Yohimbine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Opposing pharmacodynamic effects on central arousal; no pharmacokinetic mechanism is established.
What to do
Be aware that the sleep-promoting effect of melatonin may be blunted. Review the need for yohimbine if insomnia or agitation develops.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Melatonin
- Fluvoxamine + Melatonin Major
- Alfentanil + Melatonin Moderate
- Belladonna and opium + Melatonin Moderate
- Buprenorphine buccal + Melatonin Moderate
- Butabarbital + Melatonin Moderate
- Butalbital + Melatonin Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Melatonin with Yohimbine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Melatonin and Yohimbine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Melatonin has sedative effects while yohimbine is an alpha-2 antagonist that increases sympathetic activity and alertness. They may oppose each other, so melatonin may be less effective for sleep and yohimbine may cause more anxiety or insomnia. No serious toxicity is expected.
How serious is the interaction between Melatonin and Yohimbine?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Be aware that the sleep-promoting effect of melatonin may be blunted. Review the need for yohimbine if insomnia or agitation develops.
What other medicines interact with Melatonin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Melatonin with, for example, Fluvoxamine, Alfentanil, Belladonna and opium. The full list is on the Melatonin page.
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