Nursing Pharmacology Chapter 23:  Ergot Alkaloids

Ergot Alkaloids

• Overview

  • Ergot alkaloids are produced by Claviceps purpurea, a grain (rye, especially) fungus.

    • Claviceps purpurea

      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Claviceps_purpurea.JPG

  • This fungus synthesizes many biologically active agents including:

    • Acetylcholine

    • Histamine

    • Tyramine and

    • Many unique ergot alkaloids -- which affect:

      • α-adrenergic receptors

      • Dopamine receptors

      • Serotonin receptors

  •   Ergot poisoning (ergotism, St. Anthony's fire) exhibit the following symptoms:

    • Dementia

    • Florid hallucinations

    • Persistent vasospasm (gangrene may develop)

      •  "Advanced ergotism with gangrene"

        Barger G "Advanced ergotism with gangrene" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Barger.TIF

    • Uterine muscle stimulation (may cause abortion in pregnancy)

    • Ergot poisoning specific manifestations depend on the alkaloids mixture