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Name: Proheptazine
Type: Antihistamine
AKA: N/A
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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
Proheptazine, a synthetic opioid, was developed in the mid-20th century. It was studied for its analgesic properties but has seen limited use compared to other opioids, contributing to research in opioid receptor interactions.
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V. Legal Information
Proheptazine is an opioid analgesic, controlled due to its potential for abuse. In the U.S., it is regulated under opioid laws, with international controls reflecting efforts to manage opioid misuse and prevent addiction. Trends show increasing regulation to address these concerns. [Source: UNODC].
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
Proheptazine is an opioid with analgesic properties. It acts as a downer, causing sedation and respiratory depression. Short-term use can provide effective pain relief, but long-term use may lead to addiction and tolerance. Overdose risks include severe respiratory depression and potential death. Safe use involves precise dosing and medical oversight. Recent research examines its efficacy and safety relative to other opioids.  |
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VII. Psychological Effects
Proheptazine, an opioid, interacts with mu-opioid receptors, providing mood enhancement and analgesia. Immediate effects include euphoria and sedation, lasting several hours. Long-term use may result in addiction, cognitive impairments, and mood disturbances. Research highlights the risks of psychological dependence and cognitive effects associated with chronic opioid use.
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VIII. Culture
Proheptazine is an opioid analgesic, historically used for pain management. Its cultural significance is tied to the broader narrative of opioid use in medicine and the ongoing opioid crisis. Media often highlights the dual nature of opioids, as both essential for pain relief and as contributors to addiction and overdose crises. The substance is used medicinally rather than recreationally, but its association with the opioid epidemic brings it into societal debates about drug policy, pain management, and addiction treatment. Proponents advocate for balanced approaches to pain management, while opponents emphasize the risks of opioid dependence and the need for alternative treatments.
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