The Effect of Protoveratrine on the Cardiac Output and on Some Regional Circulations in Man 1

Abstract

Protoveratrine is a mixture of two purified alkaloids derived from veratrum album. According to Meilman and Krayer (1) it has a marked and reproducible depressor effect when given intravenously to hypertensive patients. This effect has been confirmed (2) and the drug has been administered in the long term management of severe hypertension (3). It therefore becomes important to know whether the depressor action of Protoveratrine 3 is a result of a reduction in cardiac output, or of a decrease in total peripheral resistance, and if the latter, what vascular area is chiefly involved. Observations bearing on these questions are presented herewith. METHODSThe Protoveratrine was prepared for intravenous administration according to the method of Meilman

The Effect of Intravenously Injected Reserpine on Blood Pressure, Renal Function and Sodium Excretion

“…Investigations on the effect of the Veratrum alkaloids on the kidney function (Hoobler, Kabza and Corley (1955) and Meilman (1953)) show a fall in the filtration rate, in some cases a decrease in the renal plasma flow and a pronounced reduction in the output of urine, persisting after the filtration rate and the renal plasma flow have increased again. With regard to 1-hydrazinophthalazine, conditions are more complicated.…”