Reserpine

Indications

Reserpine is primarily indicated for the management of hypertension. It is employed in clinical settings to address elevated blood pressure levels, particularly in cases deemed mild to moderate. By effectively lowering blood pressure, Reserpine aids in reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications associated with hypertension.

Pharmacodynamics

As an adrenergic blocking agent, Reserpine functions by disrupting the storage of norepinephrine in vesicles within sympathetic nerve endings. This action leads to a significant depletion of catecholamines, which are essential in regulating heart rate, cardiac contraction strength, and peripheral vascular resistance. Consequently, the reduction in these neurotransmitters contributes to Reserpine's antihypertensive effects, facilitating better control over blood pressure levels in patients.

Mechanism of Action

Reserpine functions by inhibiting the ATP/Mg²⁺ pump responsible for sequestering neurotransmitters into storage vesicles within the presynaptic neuron. This inhibition prevents neurotransmitter storage, leading to their increased metabolism by monoamine oxidase (MAO). As a result, there is a reduction in the levels of catecholamines.