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Name: Racemethorphan
Type: Opioid
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
Racemethorphan is a synthetic opioid derivative developed for its potential as a cough suppressant. It is a racemic mixture of methorphan isomers, known for its antitussive properties. Its development aimed to improve on existing cough suppressants, though it is less commonly used today due to the availability of more effective and safer options.
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V. Legal Information
Racemethorphan, an opioid used for cough suppression, is controlled due to its opioid content. Its legal status varies by country, with regulations focused on its use in medical settings and preventing misuse.
US Federal Schedule - II
Schedule II drugs, substances, or chemicals are defined as drugs with a high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological or physical dependence. These drugs are also considered dangerous. Some examples of Schedule II drugs are: combination products with less than 15 milligrams of hydrocodone per dosage unit (Vicodin), cocaine, methamphetamine, methadone, hydromorphone (Dilaudid), meperidine (Demerol), oxycodone (OxyContin), fentanyl, Dexedrine, Adderall, and Ritalin.
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
Racemethorphan, an opioid, is used for cough suppression. As a downer, it induces significant sedation and cough relief. Short-term effects include reduced cough and euphoria, while long-term use can lead to addiction and tolerance. Overdose risks involve severe respiratory depression and potential fatality. Safe dosing involves careful monitoring. Recent findings emphasize its effectiveness in cough suppression and the need for careful use due to addiction risks.  |
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VII. Psychological Effects
Racemethorphan, an opioid, affects opioid receptors to provide analgesia and mood alteration. Immediate effects include euphoria and cognitive impairment, with long-term use carrying risks of dependence and mental health issues. Research focuses on its efficacy and potential for abuse.
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VIII. Culture
Racemethorphan, an opioid analgesic, has had limited use compared to its more well-known counterparts. Opioids have been central to pain management and have a storied history, from ancient opium use to modern pharmaceuticals. Racemethorphan's cultural significance is tied to the broader opioid narrative, including issues of pain treatment, addiction, and regulatory control. While not as prominent in media or public discourse, it represents the challenges and complexities of opioid medications in modern healthcare. Debates about its use often intersect with larger discussions about the opioid epidemic and the need for balanced pain management strategies.
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