Alphacetylmethadol

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Alphacetylmethadol


Alphacetylmethadol (also known as ACEM or LAAM) is a synthetic opioid used in the treatment of opioid addiction. It is a long-acting derivative of methadone and is chemically similar to levo-alpha-acetylmethadol (LAAM).

History[edit | edit source]

Alphacetylmethadol was first synthesized in the 1940s as part of a research program aimed at developing opioid analgesics with improved pharmacological properties. It was later developed as a treatment for opioid addiction in the 1970s.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Alphacetylmethadol is a mu-opioid receptor agonist. It works by mimicking the effects of opioids in the brain, thereby reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms in opioid-dependent individuals. Alphacetylmethadol is metabolized in the liver and has a long half-life, which allows for less frequent dosing compared to other opioid replacement therapies.

Clinical Use[edit | edit source]

Alphacetylmethadol is used in the treatment of opioid addiction. It is typically administered in a clinic setting under the supervision of a healthcare provider. The dosage is individualized based on the patient's opioid tolerance and response to treatment.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of alphacetylmethadol include constipation, drowsiness, and nausea. Serious side effects may include respiratory depression, QT prolongation, and dependence.

Legal Status[edit | edit source]

In the United States, alphacetylmethadol is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, indicating a high potential for abuse and dependence.

See Also[edit | edit source]


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD