Harmaline
Medicinal Chemistry
Molecular Weight
214.26
Molecular Formula
C13H14N2O
IUPAC Name
7-methoxy-1-methyl-4,9-dihydro-3H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole
Pharmacognosy
Biological Source
Peganum harmala (Syrian rue), Banisteriopsis caapi
Active Constituents
Harmaline, Harmine
Pharmacology & Synthesis
Mechanism of Action
Reversible inhibitor of monoamine oxidase A (RIMA); CNS stimulant.
Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
A: Readily absorbed.
D: Crosses BBB.
M: Hepatic O-demethylation.
E: Renal.
Pharmacodynamics
Increases synaptic serotonin and catecholamines; hallucinogenic at high doses.
Synthesis Pathway
Biosynthesized from tryptophan.
Safety, Warnings & Interactions
Adverse Effects
Tremors, hallucinations, nausea, hypertension.
Contraindications
MAOI interactions, severe cardiovascular disease.
Drug Interactions
SSRIs, tyramine-rich foods (risk of serotonin syndrome).
Pharmaceutics & Compendia
Dosage Forms
Plant extracts