Strychnine
Medicinal Chemistry
Molecular Weight
334.41
Molecular Formula
C21H22N2O2
IUPAC Name
Strychnidin-10-one
Pharmacognosy
Biological Source
Strychnos nux-vomica
Active Constituents
Strychnine, Brucine
Pharmacology & Synthesis
Mechanism of Action
Competitive antagonist of the inhibitory neurotransmitter glycine at spinal cord and brainstem receptors.
Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
A: Rapidly absorbed from GI tract and mucous membranes.
D: Widely distributed.
M: Hepatic via microsomal enzymes.
E: Renal.
Pharmacodynamics
Causes extreme hyperreflexia, opisthotonus, and violent tetanic convulsions.
Synthesis Pathway
Biosynthesized from tryptophan and secologanin.
Safety, Warnings & Interactions
Adverse Effects
Violent tetanic convulsions, respiratory failure, muscle necrosis (rhabdomyolysis).
Contraindications
Not used clinically (historically a tonic; now a rodenticide).
Drug Interactions
None (toxic standard).