Levophenacylmorphan

Levophenacylmorphan is a chemical compound that belongs to the class of organic compounds known as morphinans. It is an opioid analgesic that was developed in the 1960s.

Chemistry

Levophenacylmorphan is a morphinan derivative, which is a type of cyclic compound with a core structure consisting of four fused rings. It is chemically related to other opioid analgesics such as morphine and codeine. The compound is chiral, meaning it has a non-superimposable mirror image, and the 'levo' prefix indicates that it is the left-handed version of the molecule.

Pharmacology

As an opioid, levophenacylmorphan acts on the opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to produce analgesia. It is a potent agonist at the mu-opioid receptor, the main site of action for the most commonly used opioids. The compound also has activity at the kappa and delta opioid receptors, which may contribute to its analgesic effects.

Medical Use

Levophenacylmorphan has been used in the treatment of severe pain, although its use is less common than other opioids due to its potential for addiction and dependence. Like other opioids, it can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and respiratory depression.

Legal Status

In many countries, levophenacylmorphan is a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and addiction. In the United States, it is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act.

See Also

• Opioid
• Morphinan
• Analgesic
• Controlled Substances Act