What Is Yohimbine and Why Does Dosage Matter?
Yohimbine is an alkaloid extracted from the bark of the Pausinystalia yohimbe tree. It acts as an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist, a mechanism that can support fat mobilisation — particularly from stubborn adipose tissue. Because yohimbine has a relatively narrow therapeutic window and stimulant properties, yohimbine dosage is one of the most practically important considerations before you start using it.
This guide covers what human clinical studies report about effective and safe dose ranges. It is not medical advice.
Studied Effective Dose Ranges
The most widely cited dosing reference in the sports nutrition literature is a study by Ostojic (2006), which used a body-weight-normalised protocol of 20 mg yohimbine per day in two divided doses with soccer players. A separate trial by Sax (1991) explored lower doses in a clinical context. The body-weight-based calculation that researchers have most often applied is approximately 0.2 mg per kilogram of body weight per day (Ostojic, 2006).
For a person weighing 80 kg, that calculates to around 16 mg per day. Most commercial supplements provide 2.5–5 mg per capsule, making dose control straightforward.
Dose by Goal and Bodyweight
Yohimbine is most often used to support fat loss during a caloric deficit, where alpha-2 receptor antagonism may help release fatty acids from fat stores that are typically resistant to lipolysis. The dose calculation of approximately 0.2 mg per kg of body weight per day (Ostojic, 2006) is the most evidence-aligned starting point. Do not rush to the upper range — many users find lower doses (0.1 mg/kg) sufficient to notice effects while minimising side effects such as increased heart rate, anxiety, or sweating.
If you are sensitive to stimulants, begin with a single low dose in the morning and wait at least one week before adding a second dose or increasing the amount.
Upper Limits and Safety
Yohimbine has a narrower safety margin than many other supplements. High doses are associated with hypertension, tachycardia, and anxiety. Regulatory agencies in several EU countries have restricted or suspended yohimbine-containing products above certain thresholds. EFSA has not set a formal tolerable upper level, but has noted safety concerns at higher doses.
In practical terms, clinical studies generally stayed at or below 20 mg total per day. Exceeding this without medical supervision is not advisable. Yohimbine is contraindicated in people with heart conditions, anxiety disorders, high blood pressure, or those taking antidepressants (particularly MAOIs or SSRIs).
Timing Relative to Dose
Yohimbine's lipolytic effect is blunted by elevated insulin. For this reason, research protocols and experienced practitioners commonly recommend taking it in a fasted state — typically first thing in the morning before any food or carbohydrate intake. Taking yohimbine after a carbohydrate-containing meal may substantially reduce its effectiveness.
Another common approach is to take it before fasted cardio, which compounds the lipolytic environment. Avoid taking yohimbine late in the day as it can disrupt sleep.
Practical Protocol
- Calculate your starting dose: multiply your body weight in kg by 0.1 mg for a conservative start.
- Take on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before low-intensity fasted exercise or first thing in the morning.
- Assess heart rate, anxiety, and blood pressure response for at least one week before increasing.
- If well tolerated, you may move toward 0.2 mg/kg total per day, split into two doses.
- Do not exceed 20 mg total per day.
- Cycle use — avoid continuous daily use for extended periods. Take breaks of at least equal length to the period of use.
Browse available fat-loss products including yohimbine options in the rasvapoletajad category at maxfit.ee.
FAQ
What is the recommended yohimbine dosage per day?
Research most commonly applied approximately 0.2 mg per kg of body weight per day, split across two doses, with a maximum studied dose around 20 mg per day. Start lower and assess tolerance.
When is the best time to take yohimbine?
Fasted, ideally in the morning before food or before fasted cardio. Elevated insulin blunts its lipolytic effect, so avoid taking it after carbohydrate-rich meals.
Is yohimbine safe for everyone?
No. People with heart conditions, high blood pressure, anxiety disorders, or those taking SSRIs, MAOIs, or stimulant medications should avoid yohimbine. Always consult a healthcare professional if in doubt.
References
Sax, L. (1991). Yohimbine does not affect fat distribution in men. International Journal of Obesity, 15(8), 561-565. PMID: 1938097 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1960007/
Kucio, C., Jonderko, K., & Piskorska, D. (1991). Does yohimbine act as a slimming drug? Israel Journal of Medical Sciences, 27(10), 550-556. PMID: 1955308 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1955308/
Ostojic, S. M. (2006). Yohimbine: the effects on body composition and exercise performance in soccer players. Research in Sports Medicine, 14(4), 289–299. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17214405/
