The clinical actions of veratrum

The object of this study was to ascertain more definitely the effects produced by veratrum in normal and diseased human individuals, with special reference to the circulatory system. Many of the studies reported in the literature lack definite objective data, and whatever data exist need the confirmation of the improved and more modern methods of observation. Pharmacologically, the effects of veratrum are well understood, and the drug is prompt and effective. On the other hand, the reported clinical results are contradictory, and the drug is variously reported as uncertain, ineffective or too “toxic.” However, there is reason to believe that the circulatory effects obtained in patients may resemble the pharmacological and that veratrum might be useful as a therapeutic measure for certain circulatory conditions.

In all eight individuals were studied. Of these six were convalescent and their circulations were clinically judged to be about normal. Two were cases of hypertonus. The patients always rested in the horizontal position in bed on the days when the pulse rate and blood pressure were taken. The pulse was taken for half a minute at the time of the first dose of veratrum and at intervals of fifteen minutes until the effects of the drug were pronounced. The blood pressure was taken by the auscultatory method before the administration of the drug and again when the pulse rate had reached a minimum. Certain of the cases walked around when the pulse rate reached its minimum with no effect upon the rate. The preparation used was the 10 per cent. tincture from Veratrum album. Each dose was given in one to three glasses of water, and usually no gastric irritation resulted. However, all patients complained of fullness and throbbing in the head when the pulse rate reached its minimum.