Desomorphine

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Desomorphine

Desomorphine (/dɛsoʊˈmɔːrfiːn/) is a synthetic opioid developed by Roche, with powerful, fast-acting effects, such as sedation and analgesia. It was first discovered and patented by a German team working for Knoll in 1920 but was not generally recognized until it was rediscovered in the 21st century.

Etymology

The term "Desomorphine" comes from the prefix 'deso-' (Greek for 'binding') and 'morphine'; the latter being a widely recognized opioid used in medical treatments.

Synthesis

Desomorphine is derived from morphine, where the 6-hydroxyl group and the 7,8 double bond have been reduced. The traditional synthesis of desomorphine starts from α-chlorocodide, which is itself obtained by reacting thionyl chloride with codeine. By catalytic reduction, α-chlorocodide gives dihydrodesoxycodeine, which yields desomorphine on demethylation.

Effects

Desomorphine has a rapid onset and short duration of action, with a high addictive potential. It presents cross-tolerance with morphine, and is around ten times as potent as morphine.

Related Terms

  • Opioid: A class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription.
  • Morphine: A pain medication of the opiate family which is found naturally in a number of plants and animals.
  • Codeine: An opiate used to treat pain, coughing, and diarrhea. It is typically used to treat mild to moderate degrees of pain.

See Also

External links

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