Viminol

Viminol is an opioid analgesic developed by a team at the drug company Zambon in the 1960s. Viminol is based on the α-pyrryl-2-aminoethanol structure, unlike other opioids which are usually variations of the morphine core structure. It has both antitussive (cough suppressing) and analgesic (pain reducing) effects. Viminol has additional effects similar to other opioids, and is around as potent as morphine.

Chemistry

Viminol is part of the benzazocine family of opioids. It is also related to other drugs with the α-pyrryl-2-aminoethanol structure, such as nocaine and dimenoxadol. Viminol is available in two forms, a standard form and a form known as viminol hexanoate. The hexanoate form is a salt form of viminol, and is a long-acting, strong analgesic.

Pharmacology

Viminol acts on the central nervous system (CNS) to produce its pain reducing and cough suppressing effects. It is a μ-opioid receptor agonist, meaning it binds to and activates the μ-opioid receptors in the CNS. This is the same mechanism of action as other opioids.

Side effects

Like other opioids, viminol can cause a range of side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, drowsiness, and respiratory depression. In severe cases, viminol can cause opioid overdose, which can be fatal.

Legal status

Viminol is a controlled substance in some countries due to its potential for abuse. In the United States, it is a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. In the United Kingdom, it is a Class A drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

See also

• Opioid epidemic
• List of opioids

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  Viminol 2D Structure
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  Viminol Trifluoromethyl Derivative
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  2F-Viminol Structure
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  Viminol Pyrrolidone Derivative