What are the effects of reserpine on anesthesia?

Nov 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

Reserpine may affect anesthesia by increasing the risk of blood pressure fluctuations, enhancing the hypotensive effect of anesthetic agents, raising the likelihood of heart rate abnormalities, increasing the possibility of intraoperative bleeding, and affecting postoperative recovery. If surgery is required during treatment or if symptoms such as dizziness or palpitations occur, prompt medical consultation is recommended. Reserpine depletes catecholamines in the body, which may lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure during anesthesia.

Reserpine may affect anesthesia by increasing the risk of blood pressure fluctuations, enhancing the hypotensive effect of anesthetics, raising the likelihood of heart rate abnormalities, increasing the possibility of intraoperative bleeding, and affecting postoperative recovery. If surgery is required during treatment or symptoms such as dizziness or palpitations occur, medical advice should be sought promptly.

1. Increased risk of blood pressure fluctuations: Reserpine depletes catecholamines in the body, which may lead to sudden drops in blood pressure during anesthesia. The response to vasopressors may also be weakened, making it difficult to stabilize blood pressure during surgery and increasing the risk of ischemia in vital organs such as the heart and brain.

2. Enhanced hypotensive effect of anesthetic agents: Reserpine itself has a hypotensive effect. When used in combination with anesthetics—especially inhalational agents—the hypotensive effects can be additive, potentially causing excessively low blood pressure. Close monitoring of blood pressure changes is therefore necessary.

3. Increased probability of heart rate abnormalities: Some patients may develop bradycardia during anesthesia after using reserpine, and severe cases may involve arrhythmias. Continuous electrocardiographic monitoring is required, and medications may be needed to adjust heart rate if necessary.

4. Increased risk of intraoperative bleeding: Reserpine may impair coagulation function. Combined with vasodilation under anesthesia, this could lead to increased bleeding during surgery. Coagulation parameters should be evaluated preoperatively, and adequate hemostatic measures should be prepared for during surgery.

5. Impact on postoperative recovery: Reserpine may prolong the metabolism of anesthetic drugs, leading to delayed emergence from anesthesia. It may also worsen postoperative drowsiness and fatigue. Enhanced monitoring of consciousness and vital signs is required after surgery.

When taking reserpine regularly, patients must strictly follow medical instructions, avoid adjusting the dosage without guidance, monitor blood pressure and heart rate regularly, record any adverse reactions, maintain a regular lifestyle, avoid excessive fatigue, and prepare their bodies adequately for potential surgery and anesthesia.

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