Racemoramide

Racemoramide

Racemoramide is a synthetic opioid analgesic drug that was first developed in the 1950s. It is a derivative of morphine, but is less potent and has a shorter duration of action. Despite its lower potency, racemoramide is still a powerful painkiller and is used in the treatment of moderate to severe pain.

History

Racemoramide was first synthesized in the 1950s by the pharmaceutical company Hoffmann-La Roche. It was developed as part of a series of opioid analgesics, which also included levorphanol and dextromoramide. Despite its early promise, racemoramide has not been widely used in clinical practice due to its potential for addiction and overdose.

Pharmacology

Racemoramide acts on the mu-opioid receptor, the same receptor targeted by other opioids like morphine and heroin. By binding to this receptor, racemoramide inhibits the transmission of pain signals in the central nervous system, providing analgesic effects.

Racemoramide is a racemic mixture, meaning it contains equal amounts of two enantiomers. These enantiomers, known as levoracemoramide and dextroracemoramide, have different pharmacological properties. Levoracemoramide is the more potent of the two, but both contribute to the overall analgesic effect of the drug.

Side Effects

Like other opioids, racemoramide can cause a range of side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and respiratory depression. Long-term use can lead to physical dependence and addiction, with withdrawal symptoms occurring if the drug is stopped abruptly.

Legal Status

Racemoramide is a controlled substance in many countries, including the United States, where it is classified as a Schedule II drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This means it has a high potential for abuse and is available only by prescription.

See Also

• Opioid
• Morphine
• Levorphanol
• Dextromoramide