Betamethylfentanyl

Betamethylfentanyl

Betamethylfentanyl is a potent opioid analgesic drug, which is a derivative of fentanyl. It was developed in the mid-1970s as part of a group of fentanyl analogues intended for use in humans, but was never marketed for medical use. It is most commonly used recreationally for its euphoric effects.

Chemistry

Betamethylfentanyl, also known as 3-Methylfentanyl, is a member of the phenylpiperidine class of synthetic opioids. It is structurally related to fentanyl, but differs in the substitution of a methyl group on the phenethyl portion of the molecule. This modification results in a drug that is approximately three times more potent than fentanyl.

Pharmacology

Like other opioids, betamethylfentanyl acts primarily as an agonist at the mu-opioid receptor. It produces typical opioid effects such as analgesia, sedation, and euphoria. However, due to its high potency, it also carries a significant risk of overdose, particularly in individuals without a tolerance to opioids.

Legal Status

Betamethylfentanyl is a controlled substance in many countries, including the United States, where it is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This means that it has a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision.

See Also

• Fentanyl
• Opioid
• Controlled Substances Act