reserpine

Reserpine (Serpalan) is an alkaloid found in the roots of Rauwolfia serpentina and R. vomitoria. Reserpine inhibits the uptake of norepinephrine into storage vesicles resulting in depletion of catecholamines and serotonin from central and peripheral axon terminals. It has been used as an antihypertensive and an antipsychotic as well as a research tool, but its adverse effects limit its clinical use.

L-5-Hydroxytryptophan (L-5-HTP), the immediate precursor in the biosynthesis of SEROTONIN from tryptophan, is used as an antiepileptic and antidepressant.