Reserpine Disease Interactions

The use of rauwolfia alkaloids is contraindicated in patients with a history of mental depression, especially suicidal tendencies. Rauwolfia alkaloids depletes catecholamine and serotonin stores.

The use of rauwolfia alkaloids is contraindicated in patients with active peptic ulcer or ulcerative colitis. Since rauwolfia alkaloids increase gastrointestinal motility and secretion, these conditions may be aggravated. Therapy with rauwolfia alkaloids should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of peptic ulcer or ulcerative colitis because of the risk of reactivation.

Peripheral- acting antiadrenergic agents can cause peripheral edema. Therapy with peripheral- acting antiadrenergic agents should be administered cautiously in patients adversely affected by sodium and water retention.

Rauwolfia alkaloids increase gastrointestinal motility and secretion and can precipitate biliary colic in patients with gallstones. Therapy with rauwolfia alkaloids should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of gallstones.

In general, lowering the blood pressure may cause some decrease in renal function. Therefore, rauwolfia alkaloids should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment, since these patients may adjust poorly to the hypotensive effects of these agents.