Supplement analysis backed by scientific evidence · PT

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Limited evidenceWeight management

Higenamine

A plant alkaloid with beta-2 adrenergic activity, used in fat burners and pre-workouts. One small trial shows an acute metabolic effect, no trial shows weight loss, and it is banned in sport.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

  • Acute fat mobilisation Limited evidence

    A randomized trial found that a single dose of a higenamine-based supplement raised circulating free fatty acids and energy expenditure in human subjects. It was an acute study of a multi-ingredient product, and no trial has followed this through to weight change.

  • Body weight and fat over time Limited evidence

    No randomized trial has tested higenamine for weight or fat loss over weeks or months. The mechanistic rationale rests on beta-2 adrenoceptor agonism described in pharmacology reviews.

  • Product content and doping status Limited evidence

    An analysis of higenamine-labelled weight-loss and sports supplements found doses varying by orders of magnitude, with some products delivering amounts comparable to pharmacological beta-agonist exposure. Higenamine is on the WADA prohibited list at all times.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseNo dose established for weight loss. A short-term safety study used roughly 75 mg/day; commercial products range from a few milligrams to over 60 mg, often undisclosed.
SafetyA beta-2 agonist, so increased heart rate and palpitations are expected effects; a short safety trial in healthy young men found no serious harm, but the population and duration were narrow. Prohibited in sport by WADA. Avoid with cardiovascular disease, arrhythmia, hypertension or thyroid disease, in pregnancy and breastfeeding, and be aware that labelled content is frequently inaccurate.

Scientific references

Where to buy

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