Chloromorphide

Chloromorphide

Chloromorphide is a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic that was developed in the late 1940s and used clinically in the 1950s. It is a derivative of morphine, where the 6-hydroxy group has been replaced by chlorine.

Chemistry

Chloromorphide is a semi-synthetic opioid, meaning it is synthesized from naturally occurring opioids. It is derived from morphine, a naturally occurring opioid found in the opium poppy. The chemical structure of chloromorphide is similar to that of morphine, with the key difference being the replacement of the 6-hydroxy group with a chlorine atom. This modification is believed to enhance the analgesic potency of the drug.

Pharmacology

Chloromorphide acts primarily as an agonist at the mu-opioid receptor, which is the primary site of action for the most commonly used opioids. It has a high affinity for this receptor, which is believed to be responsible for its potent analgesic effects. Like other opioids, chloromorphide also has effects on the delta-opioid receptor and kappa-opioid receptor, although these effects are less well understood.

Clinical Use

Chloromorphide was used clinically in the 1950s as an analgesic for the treatment of moderate to severe pain. However, its use has since declined due to the development of newer opioids with improved safety profiles. Like other opioids, chloromorphide has the potential for addiction, dependence, and withdrawal.

Side Effects

The side effects of chloromorphide are similar to those of other opioids and can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, drowsiness, and respiratory depression. In severe cases, overdose can lead to coma or death.

See Also

• Opioid
• Morphine
• Analgesic