ergoloid mesylates (Hydergine)

Introduction

Tradename: Hydergine.

Indications

Hydergine is used for the relief of signs & symptoms of idiopathic decline in mental capacity, including: mood, self- care, motivation, sociability, cognitive skills in geriatric patients. The magnitude of beneficial effects is small.

Dosage

Alzheimer's disease:

• Start 1 mg PO TID, max 12 mg/day.

Tabs: 0.5 & 1 mg.

Liquid: 1 mg/mL.

Pharmacokinetics

• 1st pass metabolism in liver with < 50% of drug reaching systemic circulation
• metabolized by liver
• < 2% excreted in the urine
• presumably excreted in the feces
• 1/2life (biphasic):
  • t1/2(alpha): 4.1 hours
  • t1/2(beta): 12 hours

Adverse effects

(infrequent, no serious reactions)

• rash
• nasal congestion
• blurred vision
• orthostatic hypotension
• flushing
• sinus bradycardia
• anorexia
• lightheadedness
• nausea

More general terms

• ergot alkaloid
• nootropic agent
• Alzheimer's agent

Database

• PubChem: http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=592735