Deseril

What is it?

The maleate of methysergide which acts as a serotonin antagonist. Serotonin is active in inflammation (similar to histamine) and Also, acts as a neurotransmitter and is released by the liver and certain tumours. Available as sugar-coated, white tablets of 1mg strength marked DSL.

Medical Uses

Diarrhoea associated with carcinoid disease, i. e. a tumour in certain glands in the intestine, prevention of recurring severe migraine, histamine (cluster) headaches and vascular headaches.

Dosage

Adults, diarrhoea: 12 to 20 tablets each day with meals, in divided doses and under medical supervision. Migraine, 1 or 2 tablets 2 or 3 times each day with meals, under medical supervision.

Special Care

History of peptic ulcer; 6 months of continuous treatment should be followed by a month's interval and the dosage reduced 2 to 3 weeks before withdrawal. Patient should be monitored regularly.

Avoid Use

Children, pregnancy, breastfeeding coronary, peripheral or occlusive vascular disorders, heart or lung disease, severe high blood pressure, liver or kidney impairment, disease of the urinary tract, poor health, weakness, malnutrition (cachexia), sepsis, phlebitis (inflammation of veins), cellulitis (skin infection leading to abscess and tissue destruction) of the lower extremities.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Vasopressors and vasoconstrictors; ergot alkaloids (alkaloids derived from the fungusLaviceps purpurea).

Known Side Effects

Dizziness, nausea, fluid retention, tiredness, leg cramps, drowsiness, weight gain, eruptions on skin, hair loss, CNS disturbances, abdominal discomfort, gastrointestinal upset, arterial spasm. Discontinue in the event of inflammatory fibrosis.