Demecolcine
Medicinal Chemistry
Molecular Weight
371.43
Molecular Formula
C21H25NO5
IUPAC Name
N-[(7S)-1,2,3,10-tetramethoxy-9-oxo-5,6,7,9-tetrahydrobenzo[a]heptalen-7-yl]methylamine
Pharmacognosy
Biological Source
Colchicum autumnale
Active Constituents
Demecolcine
Pharmacology & Synthesis
Mechanism of Action
Binds to tubulin and prevents microtubule formation, arresting cell cycle at metaphase.
Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
A: Rapidly absorbed.
D: Concentrates in tissues.
M: Hepatic.
E: Renal.
Pharmacodynamics
Inhibits mitosis, used in chemotherapy and karyotyping.
Synthesis Pathway
Derived from phenylalanine and tyrosine.
Safety, Warnings & Interactions
Adverse Effects
Bone marrow suppression, alopecia, GI distress.
Contraindications
Severe myelosuppression.
Drug Interactions
Other myelosuppressive agents.
Pharmaceutics & Compendia
Dosage Forms
Injection, Ointment