Pelletierine sulphate is a chemical compound used as a treatment for tapeworms. The word is pronounced pɛlətiərin sʌlfeɪt, with the stress on the second syllable of both "pelletierine" and "sulphate". The first part of the word is spelled with two "i"s but pronounced as a single long "i" sound (i.e. "ee"). The second syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound ("uh"). "Sulphate" is spelled with a "ph" rather than an "f," and the stress is on the second syllable.
Pelletierine sulphate refers to a chemical compound derived from the alkaloid, pelletierine. It is commonly found in certain plant species belonging to the family Rosaceae, such as the pomegranate tree (Punica granatum). Pelletierine sulphate is specifically obtained from the bark or roots of these plants.
Chemically, pelletierine sulphate is classified as an organic sulphate, consisting of a positively charged pelletierine molecule attached to a negatively charged sulphate ion. This compound is widely recognized for its medicinal properties, particularly as an anthelmintic agent. Anthelmintics are substances that are used to treat or eradicate parasitic worm infections.
Pelletierine sulphate acts by paralyzing the nervous system of the parasites, inhibiting their muscular activity, and ultimately leading to their expulsion from the body. It is primarily utilized in the treatment of certain types of intestinal worms, including pinworms, roundworms, and hookworms.
Due to its effectiveness and relatively low toxicity, pelletierine sulphate has gained significant popularity as a natural alternative treatment for parasitic worm infections. However, it is important to note that this compound should be administered under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as improper usage or dosage can lead to adverse effects or ineffective treatment.
A mixture of the sulphates of p. and isopelletierine; a brownish syrupy liquid or crystalline masses used as a teniacide in doses of gr. 4-6 (0.25-0.4).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "pelletierine" was derived from the chemical compound "pelletierine", which was named after the French chemist Pierre Joseph Pelletier (1788–1842). Pelletier, along with his partner Joseph Bienaimé Caventou, is known for isolating various alkaloids from plants.
The term "sulphate" refers to a chemical compound that contains the sulfate ion (SO4 2-) bonded with another element or group. It comes from the Old French word "sulfate" and Latin "sulphatum", both of which originated from the Arabic word "sulphat". The suffix "-ine" in "sulphate" indicates that it is an organic compound.
Therefore, "pelletierine sulphate" is a compound that contains the alkaloid pelletierine, discovered by Pelletier, combined with the sulfate ion.