TREATMENT OF HYPERTENSION WITH RAUWOLFIA SERPENTINA ALONE AND COMBINED WITH OTHER DRUGS

Abstract

The availability of several different hypotensive drugs that are effective when given orally makes their use feasible¹ in the treatment of hypertension either singly or in various combinations. Satisfactory hypotensive responsiveness has been previously demonstrated in the more refractory cases by combining hexamethonium and hydralazine (Apresoline).² However, a persistently high incidence of unpleasant side-effects continues to be encountered. The latest addition to the list of pharmacological agents that are effective in lowering the blood pressure is Rauwolfia serpentina and its various extracts. The drug has the distinct advantage among hypotensive agents in being associated with no serious untoward side-effects. In fact, it oftener produces certain desirable effects such as mild sedation without somnolence³ and a general sense of well being. When used alone, it offers an opportunity to bring about control of the mild hypertensive state. In patients with severe hypertension, it may be used to prepare