Physostigmine

Physostigmine is alkaloid having the anticholinesterase activity, obtained from the dried ripe seed of Physostigma venenosum. The pharmacologic properties of it mimic those of acetylcholine. It increases intestinal and bladder motility. Physostigmine is used topically to reduce intra-ocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma and parenterally to reverse the central nervous system effect produced by overdosage of anticholinergic drugs.

Brands
Adult Dose
Dose: 0.25 to 0.5 %
Single Dose: 0.38 (0.375)
Frequency: As recommended.
Route: Ophthalmic
Instructions: As Required
Neonatal
Dose: Safety not established
Single Dose:
Frequency:
Route:
Instructions:
Paedriatic
Dose: Safety not established
Single Dose:
Frequency:
Route:
Instructions:
Characteristics
. It is of Natural origin and belongs to Alkaloid. It belongs to Cholinestrase inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antidotes and Cholinergic Agonist pharmacological group.The Molecular Weight of Physostigmine is 275.30. Its pKa is 1.8, 7.9.
Contraindications
Physostigmine is contraindicated in conditions like Anesthesia,Asthma,Diabetes mellitus,Neuromuscular blockade,Parkinsonism,Cardiovascular disease,Gangrene.
Effects
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Physostigmine, which give rise to further complications include Convulsions, Hypertension.Physostigmine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Asystole. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Physostigmine therapy.The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Physostigmine include Bradycardia, Salivation, Urination, Respiratory paralysis, Cholinergic crisis, Defecation.The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Physostigmine are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Headache, Ciliary & conjnuctival congestion, Ocular & periorbital pain, Twitching lids, Myopia.
Indications
Physostigmine is primarily indicated in conditions like Glucoma, Myasthenia gravis, Oversedation, Poisoning with anticholinergic drugs, Poisoning with antidepressant drugs.
Interactions
No data regarding the interactions of Physostigmine was found.
Interfrence
Risks
Drug should not be given to Paediatrics, Pregnant Mothers, Geriatrics, and Neonates.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.
Storage
Inj Store Below 40°C. Do not Freeze. Protect from Sunlight.
Warnings
'Physostigmine should be used with caution in patients with eye problems, asthma, intestinal disease, ulcers, low or high blood pressure, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, seizures, Parkinson''s disease or an obstruction of the urinary tract. Before having surgery with a general anesthetic, tell the doctor or dentist about the use of the drug. Do not allow any one else to use this medication. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.'
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