Levo-alphacetylmethadol

Levo-alphacetylmethadol (LAAM), also known as levo-alpha-acetylmethadol, is a synthetic opioid analgesic. It is closely related to methadone, an opioid used for the treatment of opioid addiction and pain management. LAAM has been used in the past as a substitute treatment for opioid dependence, offering some advantages over methadone due to its longer duration of action, which allows for dosing every 2 to 3 days rather than daily.

Medical Uses

LAAM is primarily used in the treatment of opioid dependence. Its long-acting nature allows patients to visit clinics less frequently compared to methadone treatment, which typically requires daily administration. This can significantly improve compliance and convenience for patients undergoing opioid replacement therapy.

Pharmacology

The pharmacological action of LAAM is similar to that of other opioids. It acts as an agonist at the mu-opioid receptor, which is responsible for its analgesic effects and its efficacy in opioid replacement therapy. LAAM is metabolized in the liver to norLAAM and dinorLAAM, both of which are active metabolites and contribute to its long duration of action.

Side Effects

The side effects of LAAM are similar to those of other opioids and may include nausea, dizziness, sweating, and constipation. However, due to its long half-life, patients may be at an increased risk of cumulative toxicity. Additionally, LAAM can prolong the QT interval, leading to an increased risk of serious cardiac arrhythmias.

Regulation and Legal Status

Due to concerns about its cardiac side effects, LAAM has been removed from the market in some countries, including the United States and the European Union. In jurisdictions where it is still available, its use is tightly regulated, and it is typically only administered in specialized clinics under close supervision.

See Also

• Methadone
• Opioid dependence
• Opioid replacement therapy