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Diamorphine or Morphine

London North West Healthcare NHS Trust · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Diamorphine and morphine are opioid agonists that bind to mu opioid receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system to reduce pain perception and produce analgesia.

Diamorphine and morphine are opioid agonists that bind to mu opioid receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system to reduce pain perception and produce analgesia. Used for Moderate to severe acute pain, Chronic cancer pain, Acute myocardial infarction pain.

At a glance

Generic nameDiamorphine or Morphine
SponsorLondon North West Healthcare NHS Trust
Drug classOpioid agonist
TargetMu opioid receptor (OPRM1)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaPain management
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

These drugs activate mu opioid receptors, which are G-protein coupled receptors found throughout the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral tissues. This activation inhibits the release of neurotransmitters involved in pain signaling and modulates descending pain pathways, resulting in potent analgesic effects. Diamorphine (heroin) is a prodrug that is rapidly converted to morphine and 6-monoacetylmorphine in the body, providing faster onset of action.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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