(Not official). - glucoside obtained from Adonis Ver-nalis (nat. ord. Ranunculaceae). Synonym. - False Hellebore.

Habitat

Northern Europe and Asia.

Characters

This glucoside occurs as a somewhat hygroscopic, canary-colored powder, of intensely bitter taste; soluble in water and Alcohol; insoluble in Ether, Chloroform and Benzin.

Dose, 1/16 to 1/3 gx.; .01 to .02 gm.

Action And Uses Of Adonidin

Adonidin markedly increases the arterial pressure while decreasing the pulse rate. The primary rise is chiefly of cardiac origin, the slowing of the rate is due to stimulation of the inhibitory nerves. The late fall of blood-pressure is due, at least in great part, to vaso-motor paralysis. In its action it is more prompt than digitalis, and, according to Durand, does not have a cumulative action. If it is diuretic, it is chiefly through its effects upon the circulation. It is used for the same class of cases as digitalis. Its irritating properties prevent its subcutaneous use and even prolonged administration by the mouth.