Beta-hydroxyfentanyl

Beta-hydroxyfentanyl is a potent opioid analgesic drug which is a derivative of fentanyl. It was developed in the 1980s by a team at Janssen Pharmaceutica.

Chemistry

Beta-hydroxyfentanyl is part of the 4-anilidopiperidine class of opioids. It is related to the highly potent opioid carfentanil, differing only by the addition of a hydroxyl group. This modification gives beta-hydroxyfentanyl a lower potency than carfentanil, but still significantly higher than morphine.

Pharmacology

Like other opioids, beta-hydroxyfentanyl acts on the mu-opioid receptor to produce its analgesic effects. It is a potent agonist at this receptor, with a higher affinity than morphine. The addition of the hydroxyl group is thought to increase the duration of action of the drug, making it longer-acting than fentanyl.

Effects

The effects of beta-hydroxyfentanyl are similar to those of other opioids. These include analgesia, sedation, euphoria, and respiratory depression. Due to its high potency, there is a high risk of overdose, which can be fatal.

Legal status

Beta-hydroxyfentanyl is a controlled substance in many countries due to its potential for abuse and addiction. In the United States, it is a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act.

See also

• Fentanyl
• Carfentanil
• Opioid
• Mu-opioid receptor