Also indexed as: Alphagan
Brimonidine is a drug applied topically to the eyes to treat glaucoma.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
Avoid: Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability—Avoid these supplements
when taking this medication since the supplement may decrease the absorption and/or activity
of the medication in the body. |
Yohimbine*
|
| Depletion or interference |
None known
|
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known
|
| Supportive interaction |
None known
|
| Adverse interaction |
None known
|
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
Interactions with Herbs
Yohimbine
The active ingredients in yohimbine can block the actions of brimonidine in certain human
tissues,1 thus reducing the drug’s beneficial effects. Adequate human studies
involving the eye are lacking, and until more information is available, yohimbine should be
avoided in people using brimonidine.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Alcohol
Although human studies are lacking, preliminary studies suggest alcohol may enhance the
effects of brimonidine.2 Until more is known, individuals using brimonidine should
avoid alcoholic beverages.
References:1. Berlan M, LeVerge R, Galitzky J, LeCorre P. Alpha 2-adrenoceptor
antagonist potencies of two hydroxylated metabolites of yohimbine. Br J Pharmacol
1993;108:927–32.
2. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ:
Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 492–3.