Acetoxyketobemidone

Acetoxyketobemidone

Acetoxyketobemidone is a potent opioid analgesic drug that is a derivative of ketobemidone. It was developed in the 1950s during research into analogues of pethidine and was assessed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime but was not included on the list of drugs under international control, presumably because it was not thought to be abuse-prone at the time. It is most commonly used in the treatment of severe pain, such as that resulting from surgery or trauma.

Chemistry

Acetoxyketobemidone is a ketobemidone derivative in which the ketone group is replaced by an acetoxy group. It is structurally similar to other opioid analgesics such as morphine and codeine, and has a similar mode of action.

Pharmacology

Like other opioids, acetoxyketobemidone acts on the mu-opioid receptor to produce its analgesic effects. It is a potent analgesic, approximately three times more potent than morphine in animal studies. However, it has a relatively short duration of action, typically lasting only a few hours.

Medical uses

Acetoxyketobemidone is used for the relief of severe pain. It is particularly useful in the management of post-operative pain and pain associated with trauma. However, due to its potential for abuse and the development of tolerance, it is usually reserved for cases where other analgesics are ineffective.

Side effects

The side effects of acetoxyketobemidone are similar to those of other opioids. These can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, drowsiness, and respiratory depression. In addition, long-term use can lead to the development of physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use.

See also

• Ketobemidone
• Opioid
• Analgesic