Brimonidine

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, a 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 drinks.

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.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.