mecamylamine hydrochloride /mek′əmil″əmēn/ , a ganglionic blocking agent (antihypertensive). ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the management of severe essential hypertension and uncomplicated malignant hypertension. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Coronary or cerebrovascular insufficiency, recent myocardial infarction, uremia, pyelonephritis, glaucoma, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the most serious adverse effects are orthostatic hypotension, paralytic ileus, urinary retention, and cycloplegia. The incidence of side effects is very high because the drug reduces all autonomic activity.
