Acetoxymethylketobemidone

Acetoxymethylketobemidone

Acetoxymethylketobemidone is a potent opioid analgesic drug that is a derivative of bemidone. 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 in the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs.

Chemistry

Acetoxymethylketobemidone is a synthetic opioid that is related to bemidone in the same way that oxycodone is related to codeine. It is a ketone, and has a methyl group on the piperidine ring, and an acetoxy group on the phenyl ring. The acetoxy group can be removed by the body through metabolism, producing the active metabolite bemidone.

Pharmacology

Acetoxymethylketobemidone acts as a potent analgesic, with a potency similar to that of morphine. It acts by binding to the mu-opioid receptor, which is the main site of action for the most commonly used opioids. The drug has a rapid onset of action and a short duration of effect, which is typical of opioids with a high therapeutic index.

Medical Use

Acetoxymethylketobemidone is used for the relief of moderate to severe pain, such as that experienced after surgery or in chronic conditions such as cancer. It is also used in the management of opioid dependence, as a substitute for drugs such as heroin.

Side Effects

Like all opioids, acetoxymethylketobemidone has a range of side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, drowsiness, and respiratory depression. In high doses, it can cause severe respiratory depression and death.

Legal Status

Acetoxymethylketobemidone is a controlled substance in many countries, due to its potential for abuse and addiction. It is listed as a Schedule II drug under the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs.

See Also

• Bemidone
• Opioid
• Pethidine
• Oxycodone