Alletorphine

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Alletorphine


Alletorphine is a potent synthetic opioid that is used in veterinary medicine for the management of severe pain. It is a derivative of etheorphine, which is itself 1000-3000 times more potent than morphine. Alletorphine is not used in humans due to its high potency and potential for serious side effects.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Alletorphine acts as a full agonist at the mu-opioid receptor, the primary site of action for the most commonly used opioids. Its high potency is due to its high affinity for this receptor and its ability to induce a maximal response. Like other opioids, alletorphine produces analgesia, sedation, and respiratory depression.

Veterinary Use[edit | edit source]

In veterinary medicine, alletorphine is used for the management of severe pain, such as that associated with major surgery or trauma. It is most commonly used in large animals, such as horses and elephants. Due to its high potency, it must be administered under the supervision of a veterinarian and with careful monitoring of respiratory and cardiovascular function.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

The side effects of alletorphine are similar to those of other opioids and include respiratory depression, sedation, and constipation. In animals, it can also cause changes in behavior, such as aggression or anxiety. Due to its high potency, the risk of overdose and serious side effects is high.

Legal Status[edit | edit source]

Alletorphine is a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and is available only by prescription. It is also listed in Schedule I of the Convention on Psychotropic Substances, indicating that it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use in humans.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD