Cardiovascular toxicity of dihydroxytryptamines.

A comparison of the acute toxicity and a histological examination of the toxic effects in mouse of 4,7-; 5,6-; 5,7- and 6,7-dihydroxytryptamines and related compounds are present. A time and dose dependent induction of subepicardial lesions by 5,6-dihydroxytryptamine is demonstrated. The development of ischemic necrosis of the vaculature of the tail following 6,7-dihydroxytryptamine is described. The toxic effects of these tryptamines are discussed with regard to the phenomena of specific neurodegeneration induced by 5,6- and 5,7-dihydroxytryptamines.