guarana

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

guarana is often consumed as a dietary supplement or stimulant due to its caffeine content. The actions associated with consuming guarana are primarily attributed to its stimulant properties.

Caffeine, by stimulating the central nervous system, leads to increased alertness, improved focus, and reduced fatigue. It can also enhance physical endurance and performance. Additionally, guarana is believed to have potential antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Agitation 

Arrhythmias 

Anxiety 

Convulsions 

Diarrhea 

Diuresis 

Delirium 

Dependence 

Dizziness 

GI upset 

Hypertension 

Increased respiration 

Headache 

Hyperglycemia 

Insomnia 

Irritability 

Nervousness 

Restlessness 

Muscle spasms 

Nausea/vomiting 

Tachycardia 

Tinnitus 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

• Sensitivity 
• Cardiovascular conditions 
• Anxiety 
• Sleep disorders 
• Gastrointestinal issues 
• Pregnancy 
• Breastfeeding 
• Interactions with other medications 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

Pregnancy Category: N 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

Avoid usage. 

Pregnancy category: 

Category A: well-controlled and satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: No data is available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

• Caffeine Content: guarana seeds are rich in caffeine, containing higher amounts than other natural sources like coffee beans or tea leaves. Caffeine is a xanthine alkaloid that acts as a central nervous system stimulant. 
• Central Nervous System Stimulation: The caffeine present in guarana stimulates the central nervous system by blocking adenosine receptors. By doing so, it promotes wakefulness, alertness, and mental focus. It provides relief from fatigue and improves cognitive performance temporarily. 
• Adenosine Receptor Antagonism: Caffeine’s direct-action mechanism is adenosine receptor antagonism. Adenosine as a neurotransmitter, promotes relaxation and sleep. By blocking adenosine receptors, caffeine increases neuronal activity, leading to heightened alertness and decreased feelings of fatigue. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

• Dopamine and Noradrenaline Modulation: Caffeine in guarana also affects the release and reuptake of certain neurotransmitters like dopamine and noradrenaline in the brain. These neurotransmitters get involved in the mood regulation, attention, and alertness. By influencing their levels, caffeine can improve mood and increase cognitive performance. 
• Peripheral Effects: Besides its central effects, caffeine in guarana can also have peripheral effects on the body. It can stimulate the release of adrenaline, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure. These effects contribute to the energizing properties of guarana. 
• Diuretic Effect: Caffeine is a mild diuretic, which can increase urine production and promote fluid loss from the body. This effect may be observed with guarana consumption. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

When consumed orally, the caffeine present in guarana is absorbed from the GI tract into the bloodstream. The rate and extent of absorption can vary depending on factors such as the formulation of guarana (e.g., powder, capsules, energy drinks), other components present in the product, and individual differences in gastrointestinal function. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, caffeine is distributed throughout the body. It readily crosses the blood-brain barrier and other tissues, including muscle, adipose tissue, and organs. Caffeine’s lipophilic nature allows it to penetrate various biological membranes. 

Metabolism 

Caffeine undergoes hepatic metabolism in the liver primarily through the enzyme cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2). CYP1A2 converts caffeine into three primary metabolites: paraxanthine, theobromine, and theophylline. Paraxanthine is the primary metabolite responsible for most of the pharmacological effects of caffeine. 

Elimination and Excretion 

The metabolites of caffeine are eliminated primarily through urine. The half-life of caffeine in the body varies among individuals and is influenced by factors such as age, liver function, and genetic variations in CYP1A2 enzyme activity. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

The most common way to consume guarana is orally. guarana products are available in different forms, including: 

Powder: guarana powder can be mixed with water, juice, smoothies, or other beverages.  

Capsules or Tablets: guarana extract is often encapsulated or compressed into tablets, making it easy to swallow. These are typically taken with water. 

Energy Drinks: guarana is a common ingredient in energy drinks. These beverages often contain a combination of guarana extract, caffeine, and other stimulating compounds. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: guarana 

Pronounced: GWAR-ah-na  

Why do we use guarana?  

guarana is known for its stimulant properties, primarily due to its high caffeine content. It provides a natural energy boost and combat fatigue, helping to increase alertness and improve focus. Many individuals use guarana as a natural alternative to caffeine-containing beverages like coffee or energy drinks. It may improve mental alertness, concentration, and memory.