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Hordenine HCL

Also known as: Hordenine, N,N-dimethyltyramine, Anhaline, Peyocactin

Overview

Hordenine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in various plants, most notably barley (Hordeum vulgare). It is often included in dietary supplements marketed for weight loss and athletic performance enhancement. Structurally similar to stimulants, hordenine is believed to stimulate the central nervous system, potentially increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. However, research on hordenine is limited, with a lack of high-quality clinical trials to conclusively establish its efficacy or safety. Available evidence is largely preclinical or anecdotal. Hordenine is commonly administered orally in supplement form. Due to its potential stimulant effects, caution is advised regarding its use, especially for individuals with cardiovascular conditions.

Benefits

Currently, there is insufficient clinical evidence to confirm hordenine's effectiveness for athletic performance enhancement or weight loss. Some preliminary data suggest stimulant-like effects, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, but these effects are short-lived and require high doses. No specific populations have been demonstrated to benefit from hordenine supplementation based on current evidence. The effect sizes and clinical significance of hordenine remain unestablished due to the lack of high-quality clinical trials. Any stimulant effects appear transient and dose-dependent.

How it works

Hordenine is thought to act as a sympathomimetic agent, stimulating the central nervous system by mimicking or enhancing adrenergic signaling. It may increase cardiovascular parameters such as heart rate and blood pressure, likely through adrenergic receptor activation. While likely targets include adrenergic receptors, the precise molecular mechanisms remain poorly characterized. Specific pharmacokinetic data are limited; however, oral administration is common in supplements.

Side effects

Hordenine is possibly unsafe when taken orally, especially at high doses, due to its stimulant effects. Common side effects include rapid heart rate (tachycardia) and elevated blood pressure (hypertension). Uncommon side effects are not well documented due to limited clinical data. A potential risk of kidney stones has been suggested but is not well substantiated. Hordenine may interact adversely with medications affecting cardiovascular function or blood pressure; caution is advised. Individuals with hypertension or cardiovascular disease should avoid hordenine. Safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding is unknown; use is not recommended.

Dosage

Due to the lack of clinical trials, the minimum effective dose, optimal dosage ranges, and maximum safe dose of hordenine have not been established. High doses may increase the risk of adverse cardiovascular effects. Effects are short-lived, and the timing relative to exercise or meals is not well studied. Hordenine is typically administered orally in supplement form, but data on absorption factors are lacking. No required cofactors have been identified.

FAQs

Is hordenine safe to use for weight loss or athletic performance?

Current evidence does not support the safety or efficacy of hordenine for weight loss or athletic performance. Potential cardiovascular risks exist, making caution advisable.

Can hordenine cause heart problems?

Yes, hordenine may cause rapid heart rate and high blood pressure, which could be dangerous in susceptible individuals, especially those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.

Should hordenine be avoided before surgery?

Yes, it is recommended to discontinue hordenine at least two weeks prior to surgery due to its potential cardiovascular effects.

Are there any proven benefits of hordenine?

No conclusive benefits of hordenine have been demonstrated in high-quality clinical studies. More research is needed to validate any potential benefits.

Research Sources

https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/hordenine.htm – This source provides general information about hordenine, including its uses, potential side effects, and interactions. It notes that there is insufficient evidence to rate the effectiveness of hordenine for various uses and highlights the need for caution due to potential cardiovascular effects.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10796361/ – This article focuses on pharmaceutical treatments for chronic pain and does not directly relate to hordenine. It is a systematic review of various pain management strategies, unrelated to the effects or safety of hordenine supplementation.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1528/hordenine – WebMD's entry on hordenine describes its uses, side effects, and interactions. It states that hordenine is used for athletic performance and weight loss, but there is not enough scientific evidence to support these uses. It also warns about potential side effects like increased blood pressure and heart rate.
https://www.opss.org/article/hordenine-dietary-supplements-why-avoid-it – This article from the Operation Supplement Safety (OPSS) initiative advises against the use of hordenine in dietary supplements. It highlights the lack of evidence supporting its efficacy and raises concerns about potential cardiovascular risks associated with its stimulant properties.
https://hmdb.ca/metabolites/HMDB0004366 – The Human Metabolome Database (HMDB) entry provides detailed chemical and biological information about hordenine. It includes its chemical structure, synonyms, and potential roles in various biological processes, serving as a reference for its identity and properties.