Norpipanone

Norpipanone is a opioid analgesic that is an analog of pethidine (meperidine). It is related to the open-chain class of opioids such as methadone, dipipanone, and dextropropoxyphene.

Chemistry

Norpipanone, chemically known as 4-phenylpiperidine-4-carboxylic acid ethyl ester, is a synthetic opioid analgesic developed in the 1940s. It is a member of the 4-phenylpiperidine class of opioids and is related in structure to the opioid analgesic drug pethidine.

Pharmacology

Norpipanone is a potent analgesic that is around 20 times stronger than morphine in its analgesic effects. It is a mu-opioid receptor agonist and its main mode of action is as a narcotic analgesic. The drug has a rapid onset of action and a short duration of effect.

Medical Use

Norpipanone was developed for the treatment of severe pain. It is not commonly used, mainly because of problems with addiction and dependence. It is used in some countries under strict government control.

Side Effects

Common side effects of norpipanone include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and drowsiness. More serious side effects can include respiratory depression, hypotension, and dependence.

Legal Status

Norpipanone is a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. It is also controlled under similar laws in many other countries.

See Also

• Opioid
• Pethidine
• Methadone
• Dipipanone
• Dextropropoxyphene