Ketanserin

General information

Ketanserin is a selective 5-HT ₂ receptor antagonist with antihypertensive action. Because it antagonizes the vasoconstriction and platelet aggregation induced by 5-HT and increases erythrocyte deformability, its potential usefulness in peripheral vascular disease has been extensively investigated, although never convincingly demonstrated. It has been reported to be beneficial in pre-eclampsia [ ].

Most of the adverse reactions that are attributable to ketanserin are on the central nervous system. They include drowsiness, fatigue, headache, sleep disturbances, and dry mouth. Other complaints include dizziness, light-headedness, lack of concentration, and dyspepsia. A gradual increase in dosage is therefore recommended. These adverse reactions occur in about 10% of patients and lead to withdrawal of the drug in 3–4% [ ].

Organs and systems