Veratridine

Veratridine

Veratridine is an alkaloid whose term in the official IUPAC nomenclature is: (3β, 4β, 16β) -4,12,14,16,17,20-hexahydroxy-4,9-epoxyvan-3yl 3,4-dimethoxybenzoate .
Veratrine, known by the synonym of 3-Veratroylveracevine, has a brute or molecular formula: C36H51NO11.
From the physical point of view it appears as a white or greyish-white powder, very slightly soluble in water (1: 1800), slightly soluble in boiling water (1: 1000) and in glycerol, very soluble in alcohol (1: 2, 8), in ether (1: 4.2), in diluted acids, in benzene and in amyl alcohol, very soluble in chloroform (1: 0.7), moderately soluble in olive oil (1:80), insoluble in petroleum ether. The melting point is 145-155 ° C.
Veratridine is a steroid alkaloid present in plants of the lily family, in particular in the genera Veratrum and Schoenocaulon, as in Schoenocaulon officinale (Schoenocaulon officinale (Schltdl. & Cham.) A.Gray).
This substance, after absorption through the skin or mucous membranes, acts as a neurotoxin by binding to and preventing the inactivation of voltage-gated sodium ion channels in the cell membranes of the heart, nerves and skeletal muscles.

Veratridine increases nerve excitability and intracellular Ca2 + concentrations.
Veratridine has a pharmacological action on the peripheral nerve endings similar to that of aconite. It has an intense local irritating action and shows a powerful direct stimulating activity on smooth muscles.
This substance is a topical irritant that was once applied to the skin for its analgesic and parasiticidal properties, particularly against lice. Today it is no longer used as even topical application carries a high risk of poisoning due to systemic absorption.
Veratridine, if ingested, causes violent vomiting, purgative effect, intense burning sensation in the mouth and throat, and generalized muscle weakness. It has a strong irritating power on the mucous membranes already in small doses and for this reason it must not be ingested and must be handled with extreme caution.

Warning: The information shown is not medical advice and may not be accurate. The contents are for illustrative purposes only and do not replace medical advice.