Abstract
The dihydrogenated derivatives of the three natural dimethylpyruvic acid alkaloids of ergot, i.e., dihydroergocristine, dihydroergokryptine and dihydroergocornine, when given intraperitoneally in doses of 4 mgm./kgm. to young adult rats, produced thermal and metabolic responses which were distinctly in contrast to those produced by ergotoxine.
Administration of the dihydrogenated compounds to rats maintained at an environmental temperature of 27.4°-28.6°C. resulted in mild hypothermia which was associated with peripheral vasodilatation, and a depression of oxygen consumption averaging 13 per cent.
Increased muscular activity and hypersensitivity which are regularly produced by ergotoxine, were not evident following administration of the dihydrogenated alkaloids.
The dihydrogenated compounds have been discussed with reference to possible mechanisms of action and reactions to them have been compared with those produced by ergotoxine.
Footnotes
- Received May 8, 1950.
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