Levorphanol
Levorphanol
Levorphanol (/lɛvɔːrˈfænɔːl/) is a potent opioid analgesic medication used to treat severe pain. It is the levorotatory stereoisomer of the synthetic morphinan, dextromorphan.
Etymology
The term "Levorphanol" is derived from the Latin "levo" meaning left, and "orphanol" from the Greek "orphanos" meaning without parents or unique, referring to its unique structure among opioids.
Pharmacology
Levorphanol acts primarily as an agonist at the μ-opioid receptor, but also has affinity for the κ and δ opioid receptors. It also acts as an NMDA receptor antagonist and a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, which may contribute to its analgesic effects.
Clinical Use
Levorphanol is used in the management of moderate to severe pain. It is also used for the relief of dyspnea in acute pulmonary edema. The drug has a longer duration of action than morphine and does not cause the same degree of respiratory depression.
Side Effects
Common side effects of levorphanol include sedation, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and respiratory depression. It can also cause psychological dependence and physical addiction.
Related Terms
- Opioid
- Agonist
- Morphine
- Dextromorphan
- NMDA receptor antagonist
- Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Levorphanol
- Wikipedia's article - Levorphanol
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