Reserpine was a type of anti-anxiety, light sedative drug available to the Federation in the 24th century.
History and specifics[]
It reduced the flow of monoamine oxidase in synaptic pathways. Unlike other compounds producing that result, including ammonium compounds, ergot alkaloids, guanethidine, nicotine, pranolol, and thymoxamine, reserpine was gentlest. However, as a side effect it could cause Parkinsonism.
In 2371, reserpine was injected into the bioneural gel packs aboard USS Voyager in an attempt to stop systems failures. Kes chose it from The Doctor's list of available options, though his programming was affected by the treatment, because his memories were stored in the gel packs. System functions improved, but were slowed by the sedative affect. (VOY novel: Violations)
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are a real-world class of anti-anxiety medicines. Developed in the 1950s, reserpine is used in the 21st century to treat hypertension. At higher doses, Parkinsonism is a real-world adverse effect.