Effects of cryptolepine alone and in combination with dipyridamole on a mouse model of arterial thrombosis

The effects of cryptolepine alone and in combination with other antiplatelet agents have been investigated using a mouse model of arterial thrombosis. Intraperitoneal premedication with cryptolepine produced 25% maximal protection at 1 mg/kg while dipyridamole produced a 20% maximal effect at 2 mg/kg. Higher doses of cryptolepine showed a reduced effect. In contrast, indomethacin and aspirin produced a dose-related and higher degree of protection. A combination of cryptolepine and dipyridamole was more effective than when the individual drugs were used alone. The use of 20% ethanol as a dosage vehicle enhanced the protective effects of all drugs tested and the ethanol vehicle alone provided 45% protection.