TREATMENT OF HYPERTENSION WITH ORAL PROTOVERATRINE

Abstract

Proto-veratrine, a derivative of Veratrum album, can be given orally in doses of 0.075-1.50 mg. once daily to hypertensive patients with significant reductions of blood pressure for 6-8 hrs. Emetic effects are uncommon with this regime although when a similar V. viride derivative, veriloid, is given, vomiting is frequent. If protoveratrine is administered more than once daily, vomiting usually occurs. That such daily intermittent blood pressure is well tolerated is illustrated by 10 cases followed closely for 3-9 months and detailed by case histories indicating symptomatic relief in hypertensive encephalopathy and retinopathy and hypertensive left ventricular failure. It is emphasized as a palliative rather than curative form of treatment.