6-Methylenedihydrodesoxymorphine

A semi-synthetic opioid analgesic

6-Methylenedihydrodesoxymorphine
INN
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CAS Number	2033-56-3
PubChem	5462500
DrugBank
ChemSpider	4576590
KEGG

6-Methylenedihydrodesoxymorphine is a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic derived from morphine. It is a potent analgesic with effects similar to other opioids, acting primarily on the central nervous system to relieve pain.

Chemical Structure

6-Methylenedihydrodesoxymorphine is a derivative of morphine, with a methylene group replacing the 6-hydroxy group. This modification results in a compound with increased potency compared to morphine. The chemical structure is characterized by the presence of a morphinan backbone, which is common to many opioid compounds.

Pharmacology

6-Methylenedihydrodesoxymorphine acts as an agonist at the mu-opioid receptor, which is responsible for its analgesic effects. The binding of the compound to these receptors inhibits the transmission of pain signals in the nervous system. Like other opioids, it can produce side effects such as respiratory depression, constipation, and euphoria.

Synthesis

The synthesis of 6-Methylenedihydrodesoxymorphine involves the chemical modification of morphine. The process typically includes the introduction of a methylene group at the 6-position of the morphine molecule. This synthetic pathway is part of the broader field of opioid chemistry, which explores the creation of new opioid derivatives with varying properties.

Medical Use

While 6-Methylenedihydrodesoxymorphine is not commonly used in clinical practice, its study provides valuable insights into the development of new analgesics. Research into such compounds aims to find opioids with improved safety profiles and reduced potential for addiction.

Legal Status

As with many opioids, 6-Methylenedihydrodesoxymorphine is subject to strict regulatory control due to its potential for abuse and addiction. It is classified under various national and international drug control laws.

Related pages

• Opioid
• Morphine
• Analgesic
• Mu-opioid receptor

Gallery

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  Chemical structure of 6-Methylenedihydrodesoxymorphine

6-Methylenedihydrodesoxymorphine

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  6-Methylenedihydrodesoxymorphine structure