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dextropropoxyphene hydrochloride
Dextropropoxyphene is an opioid analgesic that binds to mu opioid receptors in the central nervous system to reduce pain perception.
Dextropropoxyphene is an opioid analgesic that binds to mu opioid receptors in the central nervous system to reduce pain perception. Used for Mild to moderate pain.
At a glance
| Generic name | dextropropoxyphene hydrochloride |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust |
| Drug class | Opioid analgesic |
| Target | Mu opioid receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Pain management |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
As a synthetic opioid, dextropropoxyphene acts as an agonist at mu opioid receptors, which are distributed throughout the brain and spinal cord. This binding modulates pain signal transmission and produces analgesia. It is the active d-isomer of propoxyphene and was commonly used for mild to moderate pain relief, though it has been withdrawn from many markets due to safety concerns including cardiac arrhythmias and overdose risk.
Approved indications
- Mild to moderate pain
Common side effects
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Respiratory depression
Key clinical trials
- Lumbar Stenosis Outcomes Research II (PHASE4)
- Oxycodone or Standard Pain Therapy in Treating Patients With Cancer Pain (PHASE4)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |