Description
Codergocrine mesilate is a mixture of the methanesulfonate salts of three dihydrogenated ergot alkaloids. It binds with high affinity to the GABAA receptor Cl- channel, producing an allosteric interaction with the benzodiazepine site. It also interacts with central dopaminergic, serotonergic and adrenergic (α1) receptors. It displays antiproliferative activity and cognition-enhancing, anticonvulsant and sedative activity in vivo. It has been used to treat dementia and age-related cognitive impairment, such as in Alzheimer disease, as well as to aid in recovery after stroke. It may be used in conjunction with other cerebral enhancers like piracetam, with which it may act synergistically. It was developed by Albert Hofmann for Sandoz (now part of Novartis)