N-Desethyletonitazene

N-Desethyletonitazene is a potent opioid analgesic drug that is an analogue of etonitazene. It is part of the benzimidazole class of opioids and was first identified in 2020 as a new psychoactive substance.

Chemistry

N-Desethyletonitazene is a derivative of etonitazene, which is itself a member of the benzimidazole class of opioids. The N-desethyl analogue is produced by removing the ethyl group from the nitrogen atom of etonitazene. This results in a compound that is structurally similar to etonitazene, but with a higher degree of lipophilicity, which may contribute to its increased potency.

Pharmacology

Like other opioids, N-Desethyletonitazene acts primarily on the mu-opioid receptor, producing analgesic and euphoric effects. It is significantly more potent than morphine, with some estimates suggesting it is up to 100 times stronger. This high potency, combined with its availability as a new psychoactive substance, has raised concerns about its potential for abuse and overdose.

Effects

The effects of N-Desethyletonitazene are similar to those of other opioids and include pain relief, sedation, and euphoria. However, due to its high potency, the risk of overdose is significant. Symptoms of overdose can include respiratory depression, loss of consciousness, and death.

Legal Status

N-Desethyletonitazene is a controlled substance in several countries, including the United States, where it is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification indicates that the substance 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

• Opioid
• Etonitazene
• Benzimidazole
• New psychoactive substance