Deserpidine
Deserpidine is an antihypertensive agent derived from the Rauwolfia serpentina plant. It works by depleting catecholamines and serotonin from nerve terminals, leading to reduced blood pressure. While historically used for hypertension, it has largely been replaced by more modern antihypertensive medications with fewer side effects.
Deserpidine is an older antihypertensive medication that lowers blood pressure by depleting catecholamines from nerve endings.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C02AA05
- RxNorm
- 62174
- Generic
- Deserpidine
- Class
- atc-c02
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Deserpidine is primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It may also be used in some cases for certain psychiatric conditions due to its tranquilizing effects, though this use has declined significantly.
Deserpidine is a Rauwolfia alkaloid that depletes catecholamines (norepinephrine and epinephrine) and serotonin from sympathetic nerve terminals. This reduces the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, leading to decreased heart rate and vasodilation, which lowers blood pressure.
Deserpidine has largely been discontinued in many countries due to its side effect profile, which includes sedation, depression, nasal congestion, bradycardia, and potential for peptic ulcers. It requires several weeks of continuous use before full antihypertensive effects are achieved. Patients should not discontinue abruptly.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy