MECAMYLAMINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Pharmacokinetics and

MetabolismMecamylamine HCl is almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in consistent lowering of blood pressure in most patients with hypertensive cardiovascular disease. Mecamylamine HCl is excreted slowly in the urine in the unchanged form. The rate of its renal elimination is influenced markedly by urinary pH. Alkalinization of the urine reduces, and acidification promotes, renal excretion of mecamylamine. Mecamylamine HCl crosses the blood-b...

ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions have been reported and within each category are listed in order of decreasing severity. Gastrointestinal: Ileus, constipation (sometimes preceded by small, frequent liquid stools), vomiting, nausea, anorexia, glossitis and dryness of mouth. Cardiovascular: Orthostatic dizziness and syncope, postural hypotension. Nervous System/Psychiatric: Convulsions, choreiform movements, mental aberrations, tremor, and paresthesias (see WARNINGS ). Respiratory...

CONTRAINDICATIONS Mecamylamine HCl should not be used in mild, moderate, labile hypertension and may prove unsuitable in uncooperative patients. It is contraindicated in coronary insufficiency or recent myocardial infarction. Mecamylamine HCl should be given with great discretion, if at all, when renal insufficiency is manifested by a rising or elevated BUN. The drug is contraindicated in uremia. ...

Drug Interactions Patients receiving antibiotics and sulfonamides generally should not be treated with ganglion blockers. The action of Mecamylamine HCl may be potentiated by anesthesia, other antihypertensive drugs and alcohol.