Home Drug Guide Deserpidine

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Deserpidine

Brand Names Harmonyl

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/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing 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.