Cascaroside A
Medicinal Chemistry
Molecular Weight
580.53
Molecular Formula
C27H32O14
IUPAC Name
10-C-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-8-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-aloe-emodin anthrone
Pharmacognosy
Biological Source
Rhamnus purshiana (Cascara sagrada)
Active Constituents
Cascaroside A, B, C, D
Pharmacology & Synthesis
Mechanism of Action
Bacterial hydrolysis in the colon releases active aglycones that stimulate the myenteric plexus.
Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
A: Minimal absorption in small intestine.
D: Colonic localization.
M: Cleaved by colonic bacteria.
E: Fecal and renal.
Pharmacodynamics
Increases colonic motility and mucosal fluid secretion.
Synthesis Pathway
Derived from the polyketide pathway.
Safety, Warnings & Interactions
Adverse Effects
Mild abdominal cramping, melanosis coli, electrolyte imbalance.
Contraindications
Intestinal obstruction, undiagnosed abdominal pain.
Drug Interactions
Cardiac glycosides, thiazide diuretics (hypokalemia).
Pharmaceutics & Compendia
Dosage Forms
Tablets, Liquid extract
Official Compendia
USP