Β-Hydroxyfentanyl

Synthetic opioid analgesic

Β-Hydroxyfentanyl
INN
Drug class
Routes of administration
Pregnancy category
Bioavailability
Metabolism
Elimination half-life
Excretion
Legal status
CAS Number
PubChem
DrugBank
ChemSpider
KEGG

β-Hydroxyfentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid analgesic, closely related to fentanyl. It is part of the fentanyl family of drugs, which are known for their powerful analgesic properties and potential for abuse.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Numbering of the fentanyl molecule.

β-Hydroxyfentanyl is chemically similar to fentanyl, with the addition of a hydroxyl group at the beta position of the propanamide chain. This modification can influence the drug's pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, potentially altering its potency and duration of action compared to fentanyl.

The chemical structure of β-Hydroxyfentanyl is characterized by a piperidine ring, a phenethyl group, and a phenylacetamide moiety. The presence of the hydroxyl group may affect the drug's solubility and interaction with opioid receptors.

Pharmacology

β-Hydroxyfentanyl acts primarily as an agonist at the mu-opioid receptor, similar to other opioids in the fentanyl class. This interaction is responsible for its analgesic effects, as well as its potential for respiratory depression, euphoria, and addiction.

The addition of the hydroxyl group may influence the drug's binding affinity and efficacy at the opioid receptor, although specific pharmacological data on β-Hydroxyfentanyl is limited compared to fentanyl.

Medical Use and Regulation

Due to its potency and risk of abuse, β-Hydroxyfentanyl is not commonly used in clinical practice. It is primarily of interest in research settings and is subject to strict regulatory controls in many countries.

Toxicity and Overdose

As with other potent opioids, β-Hydroxyfentanyl carries a significant risk of overdose, which can lead to respiratory depression, coma, and death. The presence of the hydroxyl group does not significantly mitigate these risks, and caution is advised when handling or studying this compound.

Synthesis

The synthesis of β-Hydroxyfentanyl involves the modification of the fentanyl molecule to introduce the hydroxyl group. This process requires specialized knowledge in organic chemistry and access to controlled substances.

Related Compounds

β-Hydroxyfentanyl is part of a broader class of fentanyl analogs, which include:

• Fentanyl
• Alfentanil
• Sufentanil
• Remifentanil

These compounds vary in their potency, duration of action, and clinical applications.

Related Pages

• Opioid
• Analgesic
• Synthetic opioid
• Fentanyl family