Brucinum

Brucine. An alkaloid obtained from the bark and seeds of Strychnos nux vomica. C23 H26 N2O4.

Clinical.-Headache. Paralysis.

Characteristics.-Lepelletier has recorded the following effects of 0.02 to 0.90 of a gramme of Brucinum. Sudden jerking, especially of lower extremities, spreading generally but not accompanied by trismus and tetanus, and not extending to Å’sophagus and pharynx as with Strychnia. Twitching in the paralysed as well as healthy muscles. A fever of short duration ends the attacks; after which deep sleep comes on.