Stimulants & Focus
Yohimbine HCl
Also known as: Yohimbine · Pausinystalia yohimbe · Alpha Yohimbine (Rauwolscine)
Blocks alpha-2 adrenergic receptors that suppress fat mobilisation in 'stubborn' fat areas. Works best fasted — food-induced insulin blunts its effect.
Effective Dose
5–20mg / day
per clinical evidence
Evidence Level
Moderate
Stimulants & Focus
Mechanism
Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonism
primary action
Best For
Stubborn fat loss
Pre-workout (fasted), Libido
This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.
What Is Yohimbine HCl?
Yohimbine is an alkaloid from the bark of the Pausinystalia johimbe tree. Alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in adipose tissue act as a brake on lipolysis; yohimbine removes this brake, particularly in adipose tissue that is resistant to catecholamine-driven fat mobilisation (lower body fat in women, abdominal fat in men).
How It Works: The Science
Alpha-2 receptors inhibit adenylyl cyclase via Gi protein coupling, reducing cAMP and suppressing hormone-sensitive lipase. By blocking alpha-2 receptors, yohimbine removes this inhibition, allowing catecholamines to fully activate lipolysis. Insulin opposes this via PI3K/Akt signalling, which is why fasted use is essential for maximum effect.
Primary Mechanism
Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonism
Evidence-Based Benefits
Dosage Guide
Effective Dose
5–20mg / day
5–20mg/day, taken fasted. Start at 5mg to assess tolerance. Must be taken at least 2–3 hours after the last meal — insulin completely negates its fat-mobilising effect. Can be combined with caffeine for additive effect.
Safety Profile & Side Effects
Significant anxiety, elevated heart rate, and blood pressure at higher doses. Not suitable for anxiety disorders, cardiovascular disease, kidney or liver disease, or those on antidepressants (particularly MAOIs and SNRIs). One of the supplements most likely to cause adverse reactions — start very low.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It
Lean athletes (sub-15% BF men, sub-22% BF women) trying to shift the final stubborn fat. Not appropriate as a starting fat-loss supplement — diet and exercise must be in order first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Ingredients
Medical Disclaimer
Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →