Page 90 - Pharmacognosy-II (06-PG 303)

a. l-Ergocornine and d-Ergocorninine.
b. l-Ergocryptine and d-Ergocryptinine.
c. l-Ergocristine and d-Ergocristinine.

2. Ergot also contains amines red-colouring matters( sclerythrine ), sterols (ergosterol, etc…)
and other constituents.

Action and Uses:

Ergot preparations (liquid extract or tablets) were, formerly, traditionally used in labour as
oxytocic (to assist delivery, quick delivery) and to reduce postpartum haemorrhage, due to the
vaso-constricting and oxytocic actions of its alkaloids especially ergometrine and ergotamine.
Now, ergot itself has been largely replaced in pharmacopoeias by the isolated alkaloids.

l-Ergometrine, produces an oxytocic (literally, quick-delivery) effect.
l-Ergotamine, is specific analgesic for the treatment of migraine.
l-Ergotoxine, has anti-hypertensive action.
Ergosterol with UV light produces Vitamin D3.
N.B.

Egometrine should not be used for induction of labor or for first stage of labor (at the end of 2nd
stage of labor).

Ergotamine should not be used during pregnancy and lactation and for childhood.
Ergotamine should not be repeated at intervals of less than 4 days and should not be
prescribed for prophylactic use.
Ergotamine should not be used for prolonged times (strong vasoconstrictor to the ultimate
and peripheral blood vessels leading to atrophy and gas gangrene to limbs).

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