Volazocine

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Volazocine

Volazocine is a pharmacological agent that belongs to the class of drugs known as benzomorphans. It is an opioid analgesic and a kappa opioid receptor agonist.

History

Volazocine was first synthesized in the 1970s as part of a series of benzomorphan drugs. It was developed as a potential analgesic, but its clinical use has been limited due to its psychotomimetic effects.

Pharmacology

Volazocine acts primarily on the kappa opioid receptor, a type of G protein-coupled receptor that is activated by the body's natural endorphins. Activation of the kappa opioid receptor produces analgesic effects, but can also cause hallucinations and other psychotomimetic effects.

Clinical Use

Due to its psychotomimetic effects, Volazocine is not commonly used in clinical practice. However, it has been studied for its potential use in the treatment of pain, addiction, and certain psychiatric disorders.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Volazocine are similar to those of other kappa opioid receptor agonists and can include nausea, vomiting, sedation, and hallucinations. In rare cases, Volazocine can cause severe psychosis.

See Also

• Benzomorphan
• Kappa opioid receptor
• Opioid analgesic