Emetine
Medicinal Chemistry
Molecular Weight
480.65
Molecular Formula
C29H40N2O4
IUPAC Name
(2S,3R,11bS)-3-ethyl-1,3,4,6,7,11b-hexahydro-9,10-dimethoxy-2-[[(1R)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-6,7-dimethoxy-1-isoquinolinyl]methyl]-2H-benzo[a]quinolizine
Pharmacognosy
Biological Source
Cephaelis ipecacuanha
Active Constituents
Emetine, Cephaeline
Pharmacology & Synthesis
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits protein synthesis by binding to 40S ribosomal subunit. Irritates gastric mucosa.
Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
A: Erratic oral absorption (causes vomiting), given IM/SC.
D: Concentrates in liver, lungs, kidneys.
M: Hepatic.
E: Renal (slowly).
Pharmacodynamics
Highly effective tissue amoebicide, potent emetic.
Synthesis Pathway
Derived from dopamine and secologanin.
Safety, Warnings & Interactions
Adverse Effects
Cardiotoxicity, arrhythmias, muscle weakness, nausea.
Contraindications
Cardiac disease, pregnancy, young children.
Drug Interactions
Additive cardiotoxicity with other proarrhythmics.
Pharmaceutics & Compendia
Dosage Forms
Injection, Syrup
Official Compendia
IP, BP, USP