ouabain (Strodival)

Introduction

plant-derived toxic substance

• found in the roots, stems, leaves, & seeds of the Acokanthera schimperi and Strophanthus gratus plants, both native to eastern Africa

Classification

• extremely hazardous substance

Uses

• traditionally used as an arrow poison in eastern Africa for both hunting & warfare
• in lower doses, has been used to treat hypotension & some arrhythmias

Adverse effects

• acute
  • nausea, vomiting, followed by bradycardia, arrhythmias, hypotension, hyperkalemia, & altered mental status
• chronic
  • anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
  • confusion, drowsiness, disorientation, delirium, headache, hallucinations, seizures

More general terms

• cardiac glycoside (digitalis glycoside)
• toxin (hazardous material, poison)