10-Methoxyibogamine

개요This indole alkaloid occurs in the root of Tabernanthe iboga Baill. It was first examined in detail by Raymond-Hamet who assigned to it the empirical formula C19H24(26)ON2, now altered to that given above. The base forms colourless crystals from EtOH and is laevorotatory with [Q1D - 53° (EtOH). It is insoluble in Et20, slightly so in Me2CO or CHC1 3 but dissolves freely in MeOH, EtOH or H20. The alkaloid yields a hydrochloride, m.p. 299°C (dec.); lQlhs - 67° (MeOH) or - 37.3° (H20). It contains one methoxyl group and gives the typical indole reactions. On distillation with Zn dust or soda-lime it furnishes products which are indole derivatives with the ~-position free. In a manner similar to that of cocaine, the alkaloid potentiates the pressor action of adrenaline and abolishes the sino-carotid reflexes. Unlike cocaine, however, it also augments the action of tyramine and that of dl-ephedrine to a slight extent. Vincent and Sero have reported that it inhibits the action of serum cholinesterase.