Gelsemine
Medicinal Chemistry
Molecular Weight
322.41
Molecular Formula
C20H22N2O2
IUPAC Name
(1R,2R,6S,8S,9R,12S,13S,15S)-14-methyl-18-oxa-5,14-diazahexacyclo[10.5.2.02,6.02,15.08,13.012,19]nonadeca-3,10,19-trien-7-one
Pharmacognosy
Biological Source
Gelsemium sempervirens (Yellow jasmine)
Active Constituents
Gelsemine, Gelseminine
Pharmacology & Synthesis
Mechanism of Action
Modulates glycine receptors; highly toxic.
Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
A: Rapid absorption.
D: Wide distribution.
M: Hepatic.
E: Renal.
Pharmacodynamics
Causes profound CNS depression, paralysis, and respiratory failure.
Synthesis Pathway
Biosynthesized from tryptophan and strictosidine.
Safety, Warnings & Interactions
Adverse Effects
Diplopia, ptosis, paralysis, respiratory failure.
Contraindications
Toxic, not used clinically.
Drug Interactions
Additive effect with CNS depressants.
Pharmaceutics & Compendia
Dosage Forms
Homeopathic preparations