Nalorphine

Nalorphine (also known as Nalline) is a mixed opioid agonist-antagonist with narcotic antagonist and analgesic properties. It was introduced in the 1950s and was used as an antidote to reverse opioid overdose and in a challenge test to determine opioid dependence. It acts at two opioid receptors — the mu receptor, where it has antagonistic effects, and at the kappa receptor, where it exerts agonistic effects.

History

Nalorphine was first synthesized in 1954 and was widely used in the 1950s and 1960s as a specific antidote to opioid overdose. It was later replaced by Naloxone, which is a more potent and longer-acting opioid antagonist.

Pharmacology

Nalorphine exerts its effects by binding to the mu opioid receptor and the kappa opioid receptor. At the mu receptor, it acts as an antagonist, thereby reversing the effects of opioids. At the kappa receptor, it acts as an agonist, producing analgesic effects.

Medical uses

Nalorphine is used to reverse the effects of opioid drugs in overdose situations. It can also be used in a challenge test to determine whether a person is dependent on opioids.

Side effects

The side effects of nalorphine are similar to those of other opioid antagonists and can include withdrawal symptoms in people who are dependent on opioids. Other side effects can include dysphoria, hallucinations, and confusion.

See also

• Opioid antagonist
• Naloxone
• Naltrexone

References

Nalorphine Resources
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