Drug Summary

  Drug name:  papaverine
  Chemical name:  Papaverine hydrochloride
  Formula:  C₂₀H₂₁NO₄
  Weight:   339.385
  CAS no:  58-74-2
  DrugBank link:  DB01113
  Description:  An alkaloid found in opium but not closely related to the other opium alkaloids in its structure or pharmacological actions. It is a direct-acting smooth muscle relaxant used in the treatment of impotence and as a vasodilator, especially for cerebral vasodilation. The mechanism of its pharmacological actions is not clear, but it apparently can inhibit phosphodiesterases and it may have direct actions on calcium channels. [PubChem]
  Indication:  For the treatment of impotence and vasospasms.