Abstract
The effect of venom and some venom fractions from the scorpion
Leiurus quinquestriatus (Hemprich and Ehrenberg) on the rat uterus in different functional states was studied. The venom produced a marked increase in the frequency and amplitude of contraction of the uterus. The stimulant action of the venom was not blocked by cocaine, heclofenamic acid completely blocked the action of the venom on the uterus indicating that the venom may produce its action through the release of kinins. The antihistaminic drug promethazine blocked the action of the venom, tripelennamine potentiated it, while both diphenhydramine and chlorpheniramine were without action. The action of the antihistaminics is thought to be due to their membrane stabilizing effect.