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Intrathecal Morphine/Sufentanil

Université de Sherbrooke · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Intrathecal morphine and sufentanil are opioid agonists that bind to opioid receptors in the spinal cord to block pain signal transmission.

Intrathecal morphine and sufentanil are opioid agonists that bind to opioid receptors in the spinal cord to block pain signal transmission. Used for Chronic pain management via intrathecal infusion, Cancer pain, Post-operative pain.

At a glance

Generic nameIntrathecal Morphine/Sufentanil
SponsorUniversité de Sherbrooke
Drug classOpioid agonist
TargetMu-opioid receptor (μ-OR)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaPain Management
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Both morphine and sufentanil are mu-opioid receptor agonists administered directly into the cerebrospinal fluid via intrathecal injection. This direct spinal delivery allows for high local concentrations at opioid receptors in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, producing potent analgesia at much lower systemic doses than oral or intravenous administration. Sufentanil is significantly more potent than morphine, requiring smaller doses for equivalent analgesic effect.

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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