Etorphine

Etorphine is a semi-synthetic opioid possessing an analgesic potency approximately 1,000–3,000 times that of morphine. It was first prepared in 1960 from oripavine, which does not generally occur in opium poppy extract but rather in "poppy straw" and in the related plants Papaver orientale and Papaver bracteatum.

Etymology

The name "Etorphine" comes from the modifications of the morphine structure, which is obtained from the opium poppy, Papaver somniferum. The "E" stands for the ethyl group added to the morphine molecule, and "torphine" is a modification of "morphine", the base molecule.

Pharmacology

Etorphine is often used to immobilize elephants and other large mammals. Etorphine is available legally only for veterinary use and is strictly governed by law. When used on humans, it can cause fatal respiratory depression or cardiac arrest and should be used under the direct supervision of a physician.

Side Effects

Etorphine's side effects are similar to those of other opioids and include itching, nausea and respiratory depression. Because it is such a potent opioid, it can cause fatal respiratory depression and cardiac arrest.

Legal Status

Etorphine is a Schedule I drug under the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. In the United States, it is a Schedule II drug under the Controlled Substances Act. In Canada, it is a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

See Also

• Opioid
• Morphine
• Oripavine

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