Guarana

Guarana is an herbal supplement that is commonly used for weight loss or as an energy supplement. Its active ingredient is caffeine, which works as a nervous system stimulant and diuretic. At this time, no research studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of guarana for weight loss. Although low doses are probably safe, high doses could potentially cause problems.

 

What Is Guarana?

Guarana is a plant that grows in the Amazon. It is best known for its berries, which are used as an herbal supplement, usually marketed as a weight loss product or energy supplement. It is commonly used in soft drinks and energy beverages.
 
(Click Guarana Uses for more information.)
 

How Does It Work?

Many people are not aware that the active component of guarana is actually caffeine. The berries of the plant have a high caffeine content (even more than coffee beans). Caffeine works as a nervous system stimulant and as a diuretic (a "water pill").
 

Is Guarana Effective?

There is a lack of scientific evidence to support a conclusion that the supplement is effective for weight loss. No adequate research studies have been performed and published using this substance for weight loss.
 
(Click Does Guarana Work? for more information or How to Lose Weight to find helpful suggestions for losing weight.)
 

Dosing Information

Currently, there is no established safe and effective guarana dose. More research is necessary to determine an appropriate dose.
 
(Click Guarana Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects

Guarana can cause several side effects, such as:
 
  • Insomnia
  • Nervousness
  • Restlessness
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Rapid heart rate (tachycardia).
     
(Click Guarana Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions

It can interact with a number of different medications (see Guarana Interactions).
 

How Safe Is Guarana?

Low doses of it are probably safe, although high doses can cause problems. Some people may be more likely to experience problems due to interactions with drugs and supplements. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this supplement if you have:
 
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Is Guarana Safe? for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

Since the substance contains a large amount of caffeine, it is possible to develop adverse effects if you take too much of it. People who take too much guarana may experience the following symptoms:
 
  • Insomnia
  • Muscle twitching
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Confusion
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Increased urination
  • Fever
  • Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
  • Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Hallucinations
  • Dizziness
  • Seizures
  • Loss of life.
     
(Click Guarana Overdose for more information.)
 

How Should Guarana Be Stored?

Refer to the label of your individual product for information on how best to store it. Keep guarana out of the reach of children.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;