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CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM › ANTIHYPERTENSIVES › ANTIADRENERGIC AGENTS, CENTRALLY ACTING › Rauwolfia alkaloids
combinations of rauwolfia alkoloids, combinations
C02AA53
Forms & Strengths
- Tablets: 1mg reserpine with 0.1mg hyoscine
- Capsules: 2mg rauwolfia extract with 0.2mg other alkaloids
- Injectable: not commonly used
- Combination products vary in strengths and compositions
Adult Dosing
- Initial dose: 0.25-0.5mg reserpine or equivalent daily
- Maintenance dose: 0.1-1mg reserpine or equivalent daily
- Titrate dosage based on patient response and blood pressure control
- Maximum dose: typically not to exceed 2mg daily
Pediatric Dosing
- Not established for children
- Use with caution in pediatric patients due to lack of data
- Start with low doses and monitor closely
Indications
- Treatment of mild to moderate hypertension
- Used in combination for additive antihypertensive effects
- Sometimes used for anxiety and schizophrenia in specific contexts
Mechanism of Action
- Reserpine depletes catecholamines and serotonin in the brain and adrenergic nerve endings
- Rauwolfia alkaloids decrease sympathetic tone and lower blood pressure
- Central and peripheral effects contribute to antihypertensive action
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to rauwolfia alkaloids or any component
- Depression, particularly with suicidal tendencies
- Active peptic ulcer
- Parkinson’s disease
Adverse Reactions
- Drowsiness and sedation
- Nasal congestion
- Dry mouth
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Bradycardia and hypotension
- Parkinsonian symptoms
- Psychiatric disturbances, including depression
Drug Interactions
- Other antihypertensive agents may increase the risk of hypotension
- MAO inhibitors can cause hypertensive crisis
- Barbiturates and other CNS depressants may increase sedative effects
- Tricyclic antidepressants may interact with rauwolfia to worsen depression
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use