reserpine

Reserpine is a small molecule alkaloid derived from the roots of Rauwolfia serpentina and Rauwolfia vomitoria. It acts as an adrenergic blocking agent primarily used for the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension and has also been used in psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and severe agitation. Its mechanism involves irreversible inhibition of the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2), which prevents norepinephrine and other monoamines (dopamine and serotonin) from being stored in synaptic vesicles. This leads to depletion of catecholamines from peripheral sympathetic nerve endings and central nervous system stores. The result is reduced sympathetic tone with lowered heart rate and blood pressure[1][2][4][5]. Due to its side effect profile—including risk of depression—its clinical use has declined but it remains a reference compound in research.

Brand names

SerpasilRenese-R

Other names

(−)-reserpine3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoyl methyl reserpate(3beta,16beta,17alpha,18beta,20alpha)-11,17-Dimethoxy-18-[(3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoyl)oxy]yohimban-16-carboxylic acid methyl esterReserpin