Reserpine is extracted from which source?

Appeared in: Haryana CHO - 2022

Explanation

Reserpine is an indole alkaloid obtained from the dried roots of the plant Rauwolfia serpentina.
This plant is also known by common names such as Indian Snakeroot or Sarpagandha.
Historically, it was a significant drug for treating high blood pressure and psychosis.
Its mechanism involves irreversibly blocking the vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT), leading to the depletion of catecholamines (norepinephrine, dopamine) and serotonin from nerve terminals.

Option A: Rubia cordifolia, commonly known as Manjistha, is not the source of reserpine.
Option B: Ocimum sanctum, or Holy Basil (Tulsi), does not produce reserpine.
Option D: Nardostachys jatamansi, known as Jatamansi or Spikenard, is not the source of reserpine.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pharmacognosy: Botanical source of Reserpine as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the source and mechanism of drugs like reserpine is crucial, even if they are rarely used today, as they represent important milestones in pharmacology.
A key nursing consideration for a patient on reserpine would be monitoring for signs of depression, as this is a serious side effect. Patients with a history of depression should not receive this drug.
The depletion of neurotransmitters by reserpine can also lead to extrapyramidal symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease, which requires careful patient assessment.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question, which is asking for the specific botanical source of the drug 'Reserpine'.
This is a factual recall question from pharmacology or pharmacognosy.
Systematically review the options provided, which are all scientific names of medicinal plants.
Recall or deduce the association between the drug and the plant. Rauwolfia serpentina is famously linked to reserpine.
Eliminate the other options by recalling their primary uses (e.g., Tulsi for immunity, Manjistha for skin).
Confirm the selection of Rauwolfia serpentina as the correct source.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q9hULKLDXJQQRW-J29YEr7

E6 Pharmacology Katzung 16e p. 284-286

E6 Kaplan Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry-2022 (pp 1-3768 of 3768) p. 2243-2245

Practise the full Haryana CHO - 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.