Ouabain
Medicinal Chemistry
Molecular Weight
584.65
Molecular Formula
C29H44O12
IUPAC Name
3-[(1beta,3beta,5beta,11alpha,14beta,19-hexahydroxycard-20(22)-enolid-3-yl)oxy]-6-deoxy-alpha-L-mannopyranoside
Pharmacognosy
Biological Source
Strophanthus gratus, Acokanthera schimperi
Active Constituents
Ouabain
Pharmacology & Synthesis
Mechanism of Action
Highly selective and potent inhibitor of the Na+/K+-ATPase pump.
Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
A: Extremely poor oral absorption; given IV.
D: Highly water-soluble, rapid onset.
M: Minimal.
E: Renal (rapidly).
Pharmacodynamics
Rapid and potent positive inotropic action (used for acute heart failure historically).
Synthesis Pathway
Derived from the steroidal biosynthetic pathway.
Safety, Warnings & Interactions
Adverse Effects
Profound arrhythmias, nausea, vomiting.
Contraindications
Ventricular tachycardia, severe hypokalemia.
Drug Interactions
Calcium IV, diuretics.
Pharmaceutics & Compendia
Dosage Forms
Injection (historical)
Official Compendia
USP (historical)