Ouabain
Also known as: G-Strophanthin, Acocantherin
Ouabain is a cardiac glycoside, consists of a molecule of rhamnose linked to a steroid nucleus, used in the treatment of arrythmias and heart failure. Ouabain is obtanied principally from the seeds of Strophanthus gratus. The actions on the heart similar to those of Digoxin, but only reliably active when given parentrally when the onset of action is more rapid than for digoxin. It has +ve inotropic effect on heart i.e increase force of muscular contraction .
Primary Characteristics
Ouabain is also known as G-Strophanthin, Acocantherin.
It belongs to Sodium Potassium atpase inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Anti arrhythmic agents pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 728.8 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 75 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 100 · Non-proprietary name: Ouabain.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Ouabain has an oral bioavailability is 2.5% (±2.5%).
Distribution: Ouabain has a volume of distribution is 10 l.kg-1. plasma protein binding is nil.
Elimination: it is metabolised via liver, plasma half-life is 22 hr.
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Indications
Ouabain is primarily indicated in conditions like Atrial fibrillation, Atrial flutter, Cardiac arrhythmia, Left ventricular failure, Ventricular arrhythmias.
Contraindications
Ouabain is contraindicated in conditions like Heart block, Aortic valve disease, Acute myocarditis, Cardiomyopathy, Cor pulmonale, Pericarditis.
Dosage
Ouabain's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 0.004 mg/kg | 0.004 mg/kg | — | IV | As Recommended Initial |
| 24 mg | 24 mg | Every 24h | PO | Maintenance |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Ouabain are Cardiac arrhythmias, Heart block, In plasma potassium concentration.
Ouabain is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Heart block, Nausea, Nausea and vomiting, Pulse irregularities.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Ouabain may interfere in the diagnosis of Apparent cons. of 17-hydoxy-corticosteriod in urine.
Available Brands
None recorded.
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.12.4 — Drugs used in heart failure