What is guarana (Paullinia cupana)-oral, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Guarana is a natural herbal supplement. The exact
mechanism of how guarana works is not known. Guarana contains more than 2.5% to
5% caffeine by weight. Caffeine is a stimulant and is most likely responsible
for most of guarana's effects. There is no scientific evidence that guarana
extracts or berries contain any other therapeutical use. Check with your health
care professional before using herbs or herbal supplements.
What brand names are available for guarana (Paullinia cupana)-oral?
Paullinia cupana, Brazilian cocoa, Zoom
Is guarana (Paullinia cupana)-oral available as a generic drug?
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
Do I need a prescription for guarana (Paullinia cupana)-oral?
No
What are the side effects of guarana (Paullinia cupana)-oral?
Side effects of guarana are agitation, anxiety, increased heart
rate, abnormal heart rhythm, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.
What is the dosage for guarana (Paullinia cupana)-oral?
(may vary with supplier)
- Weight loss: Take 200 to 1600 mg of seed extract by mouth once daily. Not to
exceed more than 3 grams per day. - Cognitive improvement: Take 150 mg of standardized dry extract by mouth once
daily. - Energy improvement: Take 200 to 800 mg by mouth before breakfast or lunch
once daily. Not to exceed more than 3 grams per day. - Diuretic: Take 486 mg by mouth once daily.
- Diarrhea or dysentery: Take 1 gram by mouth up to 4 times a day.
Which drugs or supplements interact with guarana (Paullinia cupana)-oral?
: Guarana should be used with caution with medications like
caffeine, green tea, armodafinil (Nuvigil), modafinil (Provigil), phentermine (Adipex-P),
methylphenidate (Methylin),
and
amphetamine and dextroamphetamine (Adderall, Adderall XR).
Combining these drugs with guarana may increase heart rate, anxiety, headache,
and agitation. Individuals should check with their physicians before using this
supplement.
QUESTION
According to the USDA, there is no difference between a “portion” and a “serving.”
See Answer
Is guarana (Paullinia cupana)-oral safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
It is not known whether guarana enters
breast milk;
therefore, it is best to avoid using it in nursing mothers.
What else should I know about guarana (Paullinia cupana)-oral?
What preparations of guarana (Paullinia cupana)-oral are available?
Guarana is available in tablets, capsules, powder extract, seed
extract, and in beverage forms. Concentrations of guarana may vary from
product-to-product due to multiple manufacturers producing various products.
How should I keep guarana (Paullinia cupana)-oral stored?
Due to multiple manufacturers making different forms of Guarana,
storage requirements may vary based on individual manufacturer practices.