Drug reference

Reserpine

Antipsychotic · Unknown

AntipsychoticUnknown

CDSCO approvedSchedule H

EXCRETION

—

not curated

INTERACTIONS

3 major

SEVERE in our sources

PREGNANCY

—

not curated

Top interactionssee all 4 →

DeutetrabenazineSevereDatabaseDDInter
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TizanidineSevereDatabaseDDInter

Mechanism

Reserpine inhibits monoamine transport into storage vesicles, specifically blocking the vesicular amine transporter (VMAT2). This action prevents the sequestration of monoamines like dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and serotonin into vesicles. The ultimate effect is the depletion of these catecholamines from sympathetic nerve endings and in the brain, reducing their regulated release and activity.

Indications

Treatment of chorea associated with HDHypertension (low doses in combination with diuretics, especially in the elderly)Antihypertensive (historically)Pharmacological tool

Dosing

Adult: In this example, 1000 mg of drug injected i.v. produces. steady-state plasma concentration of 50 mg/L, apparent

Pharmacokinetics

Protein binding

Binds tightly and irreversibly to adrenergic storage vesicles

Metabolism

Entirely metabolized

Contraindications

History of depression

Side effects

Common

SedationInability to concentrate or perform complex tasksNasal stuffinessExacerbation of peptic ulcer diseasesedation (with higher doses)mental depression (with higher doses)

Serious

hypotension
depression with suicidality
Psychotic depression (can lead to suicide, dose-related, onset can be delayed for weeks/months)
Depression (may last several months after discontinuation)
extrapyramidal symptoms (due to DA depletion)