Tartrate

Definition

Tartrate is a salt or ester of tartaric acid, often used in medications to improve stability and absorption. In pharmacology, tartrate compounds are utilized for their role in drug formulations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tartrates are commonly included in migraine medications to enhance drug efficacy.
2. Metoprolol tartrate is used as a preventive treatment for migraine headaches.
3. Ergotamine tartrate helps alleviate migraine symptoms by constricting dilated blood vessels in the brain.
4. Tartrates help with the solubility and bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients.
5. Side effects associated with ergotamine tartrate may include nausea, dizziness, and muscle pain.

Review Questions

• What role do tartrates play in the formulation of migraine medications?
• Name a common medication that uses metoprolol tartrate for migraine prevention.
• What is one potential side effect of ergotamine tartrate?

Related terms

Tartaric Acid: An organic acid found in plants, its salts and esters form tartrates.

Metoprolol Tartrate: A beta-blocker used to prevent migraines.

Ergotamine Tartrate: A compound used to treat acute migraine attacks by narrowing blood vessels around the brain.