NIVALIN (GALANTHAMINE HYDROBROMIDE), AN ADDITIONAL DECURARIZING AGENT. SOME INTRODUCTORY OBSERVATIONS

Abstract

Galanthamine hydrobromide (Nivalin), an alkaloid from the bulbs of snowdrops, is widely used in Bulgaria as an antagonist to non-depolarizing muscle relaxants. The pharmacology is reviewed and experiences in the use of galanthamine in 24 patients are described. It is about one-tenth as potent as neostigmine. As changes in pulse rate and blood pressure were slight, it is rarely necessary to inject atropine before galanthamine. Salivation had to be suppressed by means of atropine in one-seventh of the cases. Detailed investigations are suggested.