Page 43 - Phytochemistry 2 (06-PG 605)
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Extraction and isolation of ipecac alkaloids
Quantitative determination of ipecac alkaloids
• Emetine has been determined by volumetric, spectrophotometric and
• In biological fluids emetine is determined through HPLC .
Pharmacology and uses
• Liquid extract of ipecac and tincture are widely used as expectorant and as
emetic in case of poisoning. ( they have an irritant effect on the stomach ).
• Emetine and 2, 3 (±) dehydroemetine DHE, are still the drugs of choice for
the treatment of severe acute amoebic intestinal infections, .
• Emetine and DHE were proved to be cytotoxic and effective in leukemia.
• Ipeca alkaloids are diaphoretic, alone or in combination with opium (e.g.
Dover's powder).
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