Latin, Strophanthus

Eng., Strophanthus. The ripe seed of Strophanthus Kombe or of Strophanthus hispidus. Average Dose.-1 grain (0.06 Gm.).

Official Preparation and Constituent.

Tinctura Strophanthi

Eng., Tincture of Strophanthus. Represents 10 per cent. of the drug.

Average Dose

8 minims (0.5 mil).

Strophanthinum

Eng., Strophanthin. A glucoside or mixture of glucosides obtained from Strophanthus (0.45 to 1 per cent.).

Form

A white or faintly yellowish powder.

Odor And Taste

Odorless. Intensely bitter taste.

Solubility

Very soluble in water; less soluble in alcohol.

Average Dose

Mouth, 1/60 grain (0.001 Gm.); intravenous, 1/80 grain (0.00075 Gm.).

Therapeutic Action

Heart tonic and stimulant, vasoconstrictor.

Uses

Tincture of Strophanthus and Strophanthin are used almost exclusively for heart weakness and irregularity.

Administration

The tincture is given by mouth. It is usually prescribed alone. Strophanthin is sometimes employed hypodermically by the physician, but is seldom a prescription ingredient. Owing to the high toxicity of these agents, the patient should be under the frequent observation of the physician during their use.

Strychnina

See Nux Vomica, p. 226.

Strychninae Nitras

See Nux Vomica, p. 226.

Strychninae Sulphas

See Nux Vomica, p. 226.