COLEUS-FORSKHOLLI 250MG CAPSULE
COLEUS FORSKHOLLI IN-HOUSE
What it does
Coleus is a natural herbal supplement often used for various health benefits.
Commonly used for: weight loss, asthma, heart conditions, high blood pressure (hypertension)
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:41 · updated 2026-09-29 04:33:05
About coleus
Coleus is a natural herbal supplement often used for various health benefits.
What it treats
- weight loss
- asthma
- heart conditions
- high blood pressure (hypertension)
How it works
Coleus is believed to help by increasing certain levels of chemicals in the body that can support weight loss and improve heart health.
Who it's for
Coleus may be suitable for adults looking to manage weight or support respiratory and heart health.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
About forskholli
Forskolin is a natural compound often used for its potential health benefits, particularly in weight management and heart health.
What it treats
- weight management
- high blood pressure (hypertension)
- asthma
How it works
Forskolin may help increase the levels of certain compounds in the body that promote fat breakdown and improve heart function.
Who it's for
This may be suitable for adults looking to manage their weight or support their heart health.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: coleus
Coleus, scientifically known as Coleus forskohlii, is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for various therapeutic purposes, particularly for its potential to promote cardiovascular health, weight loss, and respiratory function. The active compound in coleus, forskolin, is recognized for its role in increasing cellular levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), which is involved in several biological processes.
Indications
- Asthma
- Glaucoma
- Obesity
- Hypertension
- Heart failure
Dosage
Children: Refer to established clinical guidelines or consult a healthcare provider for appropriate dosing.
Adults: Refer to established clinical guidelines or consult a healthcare provider for appropriate dosing.
Mechanism of action
Forskolin activates adenylate cyclase, an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to cyclic AMP (cAMP). Increased levels of cAMP lead to enhanced activation of protein kinase A (PKA), which subsequently influences various signaling pathways related to lipolysis, vasodilation, and cardiac contractility.
Pharmacodynamics
Coleus has been observed to exert a variety of pharmacological effects, including increased heart rate, improved cardiac output, and bronchodilation. It may also facilitate weight loss by enhancing lipolysis through increased cAMP levels, which activates hormone-sensitive lipase, a key enzyme in fat metabolism. Additionally, its vasodilatory effects can contribute to improved blood flow and reduced blood pressure.
Pharmacokinetics
The bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of coleus and its active constituent, forskolin, can vary based on formulation and route of administration. Forskolin is rapidly absorbed following oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations typically occurring within 1-2 hours. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted primarily through the urine. The half-life of forskolin is relatively short, necessitating multiple doses for sustained effects.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to coleus or any of its components
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea and diarrhea
- Hypotension
- Tachycardia
- Headache
- Allergic reactions
Interactions
- May enhance the effects of antihypertensive medications
- Potential interactions with anticoagulants, increasing bleeding risk
- May affect blood sugar levels, interacting with diabetes medications
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders
- Monitor blood pressure regularly in patients using antihypertensives
- Caution in patients with diabetes or those undergoing surgery
Pregnancy
There is insufficient reliable information regarding the safety of coleus in pregnancy. Avoid use unless prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Breast-feeding
Limited information is available; avoid use unless prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Oral capsules
- Liquid extracts
- Powdered formulations
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: forskholli
Forskolin is a natural compound derived from the roots of Coleus forskohlii, a plant in the mint family. It has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine and is known for its role as an activator of adenylate cyclase, leading to increased levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in cells. Forskolin has garnered interest for its potential therapeutic effects, particularly in cardiovascular diseases, asthma, and obesity management.
Indications
- Asthma
- Cardiovascular conditions
- Obesity management
- Glaucoma
- Hypotension
Dosage
Children: Refer to the specific product guidelines or clinical studies for dosage recommendations, as doses may vary based on the condition being treated.
Adults: Refer to the specific product guidelines or clinical studies for dosage recommendations, as doses may vary based on the condition being treated.
Mechanism of action
Forskolin stimulates adenylate cyclase, an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of ATP to cAMP. The increase in cAMP levels activates protein kinase A (PKA), which subsequently leads to various cellular responses including increased lipolysis and vasodilation. This mechanism underlies its potential effects in enhancing heart contractility and relaxing smooth muscle.
Pharmacodynamics
Forskolin has various pharmacological effects attributable to its action on cAMP. It promotes lipolysis in adipocytes, enhances cardiac contractility, and causes vasodilation. Additionally, forskolin may modulate inflammatory responses and has been studied for its potential neuroprotective effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Forskolin is absorbed efficiently when administered orally. It is metabolized in the liver and has a relatively short half-life, necessitating multiple doses for sustained effects. The exact pharmacokinetic parameters can vary based on formulation and individual patient factors.
Adverse effects
- Hypotension
- Tachycardia
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Headache
- Dizziness
Interactions
- Antihypertensive agents
- Blood thinners (anticoagulants)
- Diabetes medications (may enhance effects)
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with hypotension
- Monitor blood pressure regularly
- Not recommended for individuals with bleeding disorders
Pregnancy
Safety during pregnancy has not been established. Use only if clearly needed and directed by a healthcare provider.
Breast-feeding
Safety during breastfeeding has not been established. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Oral capsules
- Powder for oral solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.