Dextrofemine

Overview of the pharmaceutical compound Dextrofemine

Dextrofemine
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Dextrofemine is a synthetic opioid analgesic that was developed in the mid-20th century. It is a derivative of phenazocine, which is itself a member of the benzomorphan class of opioids. Dextrofemine was primarily researched for its potential use in pain management, but it never achieved widespread clinical use.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Dextrofemine is chemically related to other opioids in the benzomorphan family. Its structure is characterized by a complex arrangement of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen atoms, which contribute to its pharmacological activity. The compound is known for its high affinity for the mu-opioid receptor, which is a common target for opioid analgesics.

Chemical structure of Dextrofemine

Pharmacology

Dextrofemine acts primarily as an agonist at the mu-opioid receptor, which is responsible for its analgesic effects. The activation of these receptors in the central nervous system leads to the inhibition of pain pathways, providing relief from moderate to severe pain. However, like other opioids, dextrofemine can also produce side effects such as sedation, respiratory depression, and euphoria.

Clinical Use

Although dextrofemine was investigated for its potential as a pain reliever, it was never widely adopted in clinical practice. The reasons for this include the availability of other more effective or safer opioid analgesics, as well as concerns about the potential for abuse and addiction associated with opioid medications.

Side Effects

The side effects of dextrofemine are similar to those of other opioids and may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Respiratory depression

Legal Status

Dextrofemine, like many opioids, is subject to regulation due to its potential for abuse and dependence. It is classified as a controlled substance in many jurisdictions, which restricts its availability and use.

Research and Development

Research into dextrofemine has largely been overshadowed by the development of other opioid and non-opioid analgesics. However, it remains of interest in the study of opioid receptor pharmacology and the development of new pain management strategies.

Related Pages

• Opioid
• Analgesic
• Mu-opioid receptor
• Phenazocine
• Benzomorphan