Nurses Compass
Drug Guide
Deserpidine
Classification
Therapeutic: Antihypertensive
Pharmacological: Indolalkylamine
FDA Approved Indications
- Hypertension
Mechanism of Action
Deserpidine acts by depleting catecholamines (norepinephrine and epinephrine) from sympathetic nerve endings, leading to vasodilation and decreased blood pressure.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Typically 2.5 to 5 mg orally 2-3 times daily; dosage may be titrated based on response.
Pediatric: Use not well established; consult specific pediatric guidelines.
Geriatric: Start at lower doses due to increased sensitivity and risk of orthostatic hypotension.
Renal Impairment: Use with caution; monitor blood pressure and renal function.
Hepatic Impairment: Use caution; dose adjustments may be necessary.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Orally absorbed with variable bioavailability.
Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues.
Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver.
Excretion: Excreted primarily via the kidneys.
Half Life: Approximately 7-8 hours.
Contraindications
- History of hypersensitivity to deserpidine or similar agents.
- Severe depression.
- Bradycardia.
Precautions
- Use cautiously in patients with asthma, peptic ulcers, or hepatic impairment.
- Monitor for orthostatic hypotension, especially in the elderly.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Sedation or drowsiness (Common)
- Dry mouth (Less common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Depression or mental disturbances (Rare)
- Orthostatic hypotension (Occasionally)
- Bradycardia (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- MAO inhibitors may enhance hypotensive effect.
- Other antihypertensives may have additive effects.
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor blood pressure and heart rate regularly.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for falls due to orthostatic hypotension.
- Ineffective health maintenance.
Implementation: Administer as prescribed, observe for adverse effects, educate patient on positional changes.
Evaluation: Assess blood pressure control and side effects.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Take medication exactly as prescribed.
- Rise slowly from sitting or lying position to prevent dizziness.
- Report any signs of depression, fast heartbeat, or severe side effects.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings: N/A
Genetic Factors: None specific.
Lab Test Interference: None known.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Severe hypotension, bradycardia, sedation, dizziness.
Treatment: Supportive care, intravenous fluids, atropine for bradycardia, gastric lavage if recent ingestion.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light.
Stability: Stable under recommended conditions.