Α-Methylthiofentanyl

Α-Methylthiofentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid drug that is an analog of fentanyl. It was initially discovered in the 1960s and has been classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States due to its high potential for abuse and addiction.

Chemistry

Α-Methylthiofentanyl is a member of the fentanyl family of synthetic opioids. It is structurally similar to fentanyl, but with a sulfur atom replacing one of the hydrogen atoms on the methyl group attached to the nitrogen atom. This small change in structure results in a drug that is approximately three times more potent than fentanyl.

Pharmacology

Like other opioids, Α-Methylthiofentanyl works by binding to the mu-opioid receptor in the brain. This receptor is responsible for the analgesic effects of opioids, as well as their potential for addiction. The binding of Α-Methylthiofentanyl to this receptor triggers a series of biochemical reactions that result in decreased perception of pain and a sense of euphoria.

Effects

The effects of Α-Methylthiofentanyl are similar to those of other opioids and include pain relief, sedation, and euphoria. However, due to its high potency, the risk of overdose and death is significantly higher than with other opioids. Symptoms of overdose can include slow or shallow breathing, extreme sleepiness, and loss of consciousness.

Legal Status

In the United States, Α-Methylthiofentanyl is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, which means it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. It is also controlled under similar laws in many other countries.

See Also

• Fentanyl
• Opioid
• Mu-opioid receptor