List of benzimidazole opioids

The benzimidazole opioids are a class of synthetic opioids that are structurally related to the benzimidazole chemical structure. These compounds are known for their potent analgesic properties and are primarily used in research settings. They are not commonly used in clinical practice due to their high potency and potential for abuse.

Chemical Structure

The benzimidazole opioids are characterized by the presence of a benzimidazole ring, which is a bicyclic compound consisting of a benzene ring fused to an imidazole ring. This structure is crucial for the binding affinity and activity of these compounds at the opioid receptors.

General structure of nitazenes

List of Benzimidazole Opioids

Nitazenes

The nitazenes are a prominent subgroup of benzimidazole opioids. They are known for their high potency and have been the subject of research due to their potential as analgesics.

• Nitazene

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Structure of Nitazene

 * Nitazene is one of the first compounds in this class to be synthesized. It exhibits strong analgesic effects but is not used clinically due to its potency and risk of overdose.

• Etazene

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Structure of Etazene

 * Etazene is another potent opioid in the nitazene series. It has been studied for its analgesic properties but is not approved for medical use.

• Metodesnitazene

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Structure of Metodesnitazene

 * Metodesnitazene is a derivative of nitazene with modifications that enhance its binding to opioid receptors.

• Metodesnitazepyne

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Structure of Metodesnitazepyne

 * This compound is similar to metodesnitazene but with additional structural changes that affect its pharmacological profile.

• Protodesnitazene

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Structure of Protodesnitazene

 * Protodesnitazene is another analog in the nitazene series, known for its potent opioid activity.

• Isotodesnitazene

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Structure of Isotodesnitazene

 * Isotodesnitazene is a structural isomer of other nitazenes, with similar pharmacological effects.

Other Benzimidazole Opioids

• DEAE-BN-BI

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Structure of DEAE-BN-BI

 * DEAE-BN-BI is a less common benzimidazole opioid, studied for its unique binding properties.

• Pyrrolidine-etodesnitazene

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Structure of Pyrrolidine-etodesnitazene

 * This compound features a pyrrolidine ring, which alters its interaction with opioid receptors.

• Piperidine-etodesnitazene

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Structure of Piperidine-etodesnitazene

 * Piperidine-etodesnitazene includes a piperidine moiety, contributing to its distinct pharmacological profile.

Pharmacology

Benzimidazole opioids act primarily as agonists at the μ-opioid receptors, which are responsible for their analgesic effects. Their high potency is due to their strong binding affinity to these receptors. However, this also increases the risk of adverse effects such as respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening.

Legal Status

Due to their high potency and potential for abuse, many benzimidazole opioids are classified as controlled substances in various countries. They are primarily used in research settings and are not approved for medical use in humans.

Related Pages

• Opioid
• Analgesic
• Controlled substance