Drug Groups

approved

Description

Deserpidine is an ester alkaloid drug isolated from Rauwolfia canescens (family Apocynaceae) with antipsychotic and antihypertensive properties that has been used for the control of high blood pressure and for the relief of psychotic behavior.

Indication

For the treatment of hypertension.

Pharmacology

Deserpidine, an alkaloid of Rauwolfia canescens, is used as an antihypertensive. Rauwolfia alkaloids work by controlling nerve impulses along certain nerve pathways. As a result, they act on the heart and blood vessels to lower blood pressure.

Toxicity

Symptoms of overdose include dizziness or drowsiness (severe), flushing of skin, pinpoint pupils of eyes and slowed pulse.

Affected Organisms