Deserpidine hydrochloride

Deserpidine hydrochloride is the salf form of Deserpidine (free base), which is an antihypertensive drug related to reserpine which occurs naturally in Rauwolfia canescens. Deserpidine is a competitive inhibitor of the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) . By competing with angiotensin I for ACE, deserpidine blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which is a potent vasoconstrictor. Reduced level of serum angiotensin II causes a decrease in blood pressure. Deserpidine also decreases angiotensin II-induced aldosterone secretion by the adrenal cortex.