Reserpine is used to treat high blood pressure, but is also used in the treatment of severe states of agitation in patients with psychiatric disorders.
What is Reserpine?
Reserpine is an alkaloid that reduces the activity of the nervous system, which slows the heartbeat and relaxes blood vessels. To do so, it inhibits the recovery of norepinephrine in synapses in both the central and peripheral nervous system.
How should Reserpine be taken?
Typically, the reserpine is consumed once a day orally in the form of tablets to be swallowed.
Side effects associated with Reserpine
Among the possible side effects of reserpine include:
- dizziness
- loss of appetite
- diarrhea
- upset stomach
- vomit
- stuffy nose
- headache
- dry mouth
- sexual dysfunctions
It is better to contact a doctor immediately in case of:
- depression
- nightmares
- fainting
- bradycardia
- chest pain
- swelling of feet or ankles
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Reserpine
Reserpine can impair the ability to drive or operate dangerous machinery.
The side effects of the drug can be aggravated by alcohol.
Moreover, before taking reserpine it is important to tell your doctor about:
- allergies to the substance, excipients with other drugs (especially aspirin) or TARTRAZINE (a yellow dye present in some processed foods and certain drugs)
- other medicines, herbal remedies and supplements taken, in particular amitriptyline, desipramine, doxepin, clomipramide, digoxin, ephedrine, epinephrine, phenylephrine, imipramine, nortriptyline, protriptyline, MAO inhibitors, quinidine and trimipramine.
- If you suffer (or have suffered) from kidney disease, gallbladder calculi, ulcers, ulcerative colitis, depression.
- If you have ever faced an electric shock
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
You must also inform surgeons and dentists about ongoing treatment with reserpine.
