Dehydronorketamine

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5,6-Dehydronorketamine.svg

Dehydronorketamine (DHNK) is a metabolite of the dissociative anesthetic ketamine. It is formed through the metabolism of norketamine, which is itself a primary metabolite of ketamine. Dehydronorketamine has been studied for its potential pharmacological effects and its role in the overall action of ketamine.

Chemical Structure and Properties[edit | edit source]

Dehydronorketamine is chemically related to ketamine and norketamine. It is characterized by the removal of a hydrogen atom from the norketamine molecule, resulting in a double bond. The chemical structure of dehydronorketamine is similar to that of other arylcyclohexylamine compounds.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

The pharmacological properties of dehydronorketamine are not as well understood as those of ketamine and norketamine. However, it is known to interact with the NMDA receptor, which is a key target for the anesthetic and analgesic effects of ketamine. Dehydronorketamine may also have effects on other neurotransmitter systems, although further research is needed to fully elucidate its pharmacological profile.

Metabolism[edit | edit source]

Ketamine is metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system. The primary metabolite, norketamine, is further metabolized to dehydronorketamine. The metabolic pathway involves the oxidation of norketamine, leading to the formation of dehydronorketamine. This process is part of the body's mechanism for breaking down and eliminating ketamine.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The clinical significance of dehydronorketamine is still under investigation. While ketamine is widely used for its anesthetic and analgesic properties, the role of its metabolites, including dehydronorketamine, in its overall effects is not fully understood. Some studies suggest that metabolites like dehydronorketamine may contribute to the therapeutic effects of ketamine, particularly in the treatment of depression and chronic pain.

Research[edit | edit source]

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of dehydronorketamine. Studies aim to determine its potential therapeutic benefits and its role in the side effect profile of ketamine. Researchers are also exploring the possibility of developing dehydronorketamine as a standalone therapeutic agent.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD