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Name: Phenoperidine
Type: Opioid
AKA: Operidine, Lealgin
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II. Natural Derivative
Synthetic substance, no natural derivative
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III. Chemical Profile (IUPAC name)
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IV. History
Phenoperidine is a synthetic opioid developed in the 1950s. It is used as an analgesic and anesthetic, particularly in surgical settings. Phenoperidine is a derivative of pethidine and has similar pharmacological properties. Its use has declined with the availability of other opioids with more favorable profiles, but it remains an important part of the history of opioid development.
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V. Legal Information
Phenoperidine, a synthetic opioid, is regulated as a controlled substance in many jurisdictions due to its abuse potential. In the US, it may fall under general opioid regulations. Globally, it faces similar restrictions reflecting the trend towards controlling synthetic opioids to address abuse and addiction issues.
US Federal Schedule - I
Schedule I drugs, substances, or chemicals are defined as drugs with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Some examples of Schedule I drugs are: heroin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), marijuana (cannabis), 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (ecstasy), methaqualone, and peyote.
Key US Federal Policies:
Controlled Substances Act. Public Law: Public Law 91-513 (text can be found on GovInfo) (https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/csa). Date enacted: October 27, 1970.
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VI. Physical Effects
Phenoperidine, an opioid analgesic, is used for pain relief. As a downer, it induces significant sedation and respiratory depression. Short-term effects include pain relief and euphoria, while long-term use can lead to addiction and tolerance. Overdose risks include life-threatening respiratory depression. Safe dosing requires careful monitoring. Recent research highlights its effectiveness in managing severe pain but also notes the potential for misuse and addiction.  |
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VII. Psychological Effects
Phenoperidine, an opioid, affects opioid receptors to produce euphoria and pain relief. Psychological effects include altered mood and cognitive impairment. Long-term use can lead to dependence and mental health issues. Research focuses on its potency and impact on mental health compared to other opioids.
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VIII. Culture
Phenoperidine, a synthetic opioid, has been used in medical settings for pain management, particularly in surgical anesthesia. Its cultural significance is relatively minor compared to more well-known opioids but reflects the broader history of opioid use in medicine. Phenoperidine represents the ongoing efforts to provide effective pain relief in clinical settings and the challenges of balancing efficacy with safety. The substance is part of the larger narrative of opioid pharmacotherapy and the continuous quest to improve pain management while mitigating the risks of dependency and misuse.
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