Ajmalicine
Ajmalicine
Ajmalicine (pronunciation: aj-ma-li-cine), also known as Raubasine, is an alkaloid that is found in various plants, most notably in the Rauvolfia serpentina (Indian Snakeroot) and Catharanthus roseus (Madagascar Periwinkle). It is used in the treatment of hypertension and mental disorders due to its anti-hypertensive and sedative properties.
Etymology
The term "Ajmalicine" is derived from the name of the Indian scientist, Hakim Ajmal Khan, who first isolated the compound. The suffix "-ine" is common in the nomenclature of alkaloids.
Pharmacology
Ajmalicine acts as an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonist and a serotonin 5-HT2A receptor antagonist. It inhibits the release of norepinephrine (noradrenaline) and reduces the effects of serotonin in the brain, thereby lowering blood pressure and producing a calming effect.
Medical Uses
Ajmalicine is used in the treatment of various conditions such as:
- Hypertension: Ajmalicine helps in lowering the blood pressure by inhibiting the release of norepinephrine.
- Mental Disorders: Due to its sedative properties, Ajmalicine is used in the treatment of mental disorders like anxiety and insomnia.
Related Terms
- Alkaloid
- Rauvolfia serpentina
- Catharanthus roseus
- Hypertension
- Mental Disorders
- Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor
- Serotonin 5-HT2A receptor
- Norepinephrine
- Serotonin
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ajmalicine
- Wikipedia's article - Ajmalicine
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