Properidine

Properidine

Properidine is a synthetic opioid and is part of the piperidine class of analgesic agents. It is primarily used in the management of moderate to severe pain. Properidine is also known by its trade name, Rhotral, and is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act in the United States.

Pharmacology

Properidine acts as a mu-opioid receptor agonist. This receptor is a G protein-coupled receptor that mediates the effects of opioids. When properidine binds to the mu-opioid receptor, it inhibits the release of GABA, a neurotransmitter that inhibits the release of dopamine. This results in an increase in dopamine release, which contributes to the analgesic effects of the drug.

Clinical Use

Properidine is used for the management of moderate to severe pain. It is often used in situations where other analgesics, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or paracetamol, are not effective. Properidine can be administered orally, intramuscularly, or intravenously.

Side Effects

Like other opioids, properidine has a number of side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and respiratory depression. In addition, properidine can cause physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms if used for a prolonged period of time.

Legal Status

In the United States, properidine is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This means that it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. In other countries, the legal status of properidine may vary.

See Also

• Opioid
• Piperidine
• Controlled Substances Act