Brorphine

Brorphine is a synthetic opioid analgesic that has been identified as a designer drug. It is structurally related to other synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and U-47700. Brorphine has been associated with numerous cases of overdose and fatalities, particularly in the context of its use as a recreational drug.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Brorphine's chemical structure includes a piperidine ring, a benzimidazole moiety, and a 4-bromophenyl group. Its IUPAC name is 1-[1-[1-(4-bromophenyl)ethyl]piperidin-4-yl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one. The molecular formula is C21H24BrN3O.

Pharmacology

Brorphine acts as a potent mu-opioid receptor agonist, similar to other synthetic opioids. This receptor activity is responsible for its analgesic effects as well as its potential for abuse and overdose. The pharmacokinetics and metabolism of brorphine are not well-documented, but it is believed to be metabolized in the liver and excreted via the kidneys.

Legal Status

In the United States, brorphine is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification indicates that it has a high potential for abuse, no accepted medical use, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision.

Health Risks and Overdose

The use of brorphine has been linked to several cases of overdose and death. Symptoms of brorphine overdose are similar to those of other opioids and include respiratory depression, sedation, and loss of consciousness. Emergency treatment typically involves the administration of naloxone, an opioid antagonist.

See Also

• Synthetic opioids
• Opioid overdose
• Controlled Substances Act
• Naloxone

References

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