Desmethylflunitrazepam

Desmethylflunitrazepam is a pharmacological substance that is classified as a benzodiazepine. It is a metabolite of the well-known drug flunitrazepam, which is commonly known as Rohypnol.

Chemistry

Desmethylflunitrazepam, like all benzodiazepines, has a core structure of a benzene ring fused to a diazepine ring. The difference between desmethylflunitrazepam and flunitrazepam is the absence of a methyl group on the nitrogen atom in the diazepine ring. This small structural change results in a significant difference in the pharmacological activity of the two substances.

Pharmacology

Desmethylflunitrazepam acts as an agonist at the GABA_A receptor, the same mechanism of action as other benzodiazepines. This results in an increase in the inhibitory effects of the neurotransmitter GABA, leading to sedative and anxiolytic effects.

Medical Use

While desmethylflunitrazepam itself is not typically used in medicine, its parent compound flunitrazepam is used in some countries as a treatment for severe insomnia. However, it is not commonly used due to its high potential for dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Legal Status

Desmethylflunitrazepam is a controlled substance in many countries due to its potential for abuse and dependence. In the United States, it is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act.

See Also

• Benzodiazepine
• Flunitrazepam
• GABA_A receptor