Serpina

Description

Serpina by Himalaya Herbal Healthcare is an herbal, non-prescription supplement used to alleviate anxiety and hypertension. Serpina is available as orally consumable tablets sold over the counter.

 

Drug Information

 

Serpina tablets contain Indian snakeroot (scientifically known as Rauvolfia serpentine) as the single active ingredient. Each 250 mg Serpina tablet contains 4 mg of Indian snakeroot extract.

 

Indian snakeroot was traditionally used to treat venomous snake bites, but came to be known as an all-purpose remedy to treat a variety of conditions including hypertension, fever, epilepsy, dysentery, cholera, intestinal problems, pimples, boils, uterine contractions, corneal opacity, insomnia, nervousness, hypochondria, menstrual pain and even to ease the pain of childbirth.

 

The root bark of Indian snakeroot is rich in alkaloids, one of which is chemically similar to the rauwolfia alkaloid reserpine. Reserpine is a medically prescribed drug that relieves hypertension and psychotic symptoms. Prescription reserpine works by reducing the release of neurotransmitters in the brain such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which then helps to lower mild to moderate high blood pressure, schizophrenia and agitation in patients with mental health issues.

 

Manufacturers of Serpina claim that the herb depletes peripheral catecholamine (noradrenaline) stores, which relaxes blood vessels resulting in lowered blood pressure. High blood pressure left untreated can lead to heart attacks, strokes and kidney problems. Serpina is also said to decrease adrenergic tone to control anxiety.

 

Dosage

 

Strictly follow all instructions mentioned in the leaflet that comes with the package, or are printed on the back of the bottle.

 

Dosage of Serpina can vary. Generally, take one Serpina tablet with a glass of water once a day, or as directed by a physician.

 

Side Effects:

 

There are currently no known side effects of Serpina for the prescribed dosage. However, the following conditions could occur with Indian snakeroot extracts:

 

 Nasal congestion
 Stomach cramps
 Nausea
 Diarrhea
 Vomiting
 Loss of appetite
 Drowsiness
 Convulsions
 Parkinson’s-like symptoms
 Coma

 

Following side effects are known to be caused by Reserpine:

 

 Drowsiness
 Dizziness
 Tiredness
 Nausea
 Vomiting
 Diarrhea
 Slow heartbeat
 Stuffy nose

 

Uncommon but possible side effects of Reserpine:

 

 Severe abdominal pain
 Black stool
 Fainting
 Severe dizziness
 Shortness of breath
 Swollen ankles or feet
 Unexplained and sudden weight gain
 Enlarged breasts in males
 Unusual breast discharge in females

 

Side effects are more likely at higher doses, therefore do not increase the dosage of Serpina without consulting a physician first.

 

Severe allergic reactions are possible, especially if the user is prone to allergies. Immediately seek emergency medical care if any of these symptoms are present after taking Serpina: breathing problems, chest pain, hives, skin rash, swelling or itchiness.

 

Precautions

 

 Do not take Serpina if allergic to rauwolfia alkaloids or medications like Reserpine.

 

 Do not take Serpina if pregnant or breastfeeding without prior approval from a physician.

 

 Indian snakeroot products are not recommended for patients receiving electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

 

 Do not take Serpina if users have or have had urinary or intestinal ulcers.

 

 Indian snakeroot extracts are not suitable for patients with depression or suicidal tendencies.

 

Serpina is not a treatment for dangerously high blood pressure, such as those caused by tumors in adrenal glands. Indian snakeroot could possibly to make these conditions worse.