dihydroergocristine

Dihydroergocristine is a semisynthetic ergot alkaloid and a component of the ergoloid mixture, primarily used to delay progressive mental decline in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia. It has also been used for the symptomatic treatment of mental deterioration associated with cerebrovascular insufficiency and peripheral vascular disease. Dihydroergocristine acts as a noncompetitive antagonist at serotonin receptors, and exhibits partial agonist/antagonist activity at dopaminergic and adrenergic receptors. In studies related to Alzheimer's disease, it has been shown to act as a direct inhibitor of γ-secretase. The drug increases cerebral blood flow, oxygen consumption in the brain, protects against metabolic effects of ischemia, and modulates cellular antioxidant systems. Developed by Sandoz and manufactured by Novartis.

Brand names

Hydergine

Other names

dihydroergocristine mesylate