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Opium tincture

Asbjørn Mohr Drewes · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Opium tincture contains alkaloids (primarily morphine and codeine) that bind to opioid receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system to produce analgesia, sedation, and antidiarrheal effects.

Opium tincture contains alkaloids (primarily morphine and codeine) that bind to opioid receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system to produce analgesia, sedation, and antidiarrheal effects. Used for Moderate pain, Diarrhea (historically; limited modern use).

At a glance

Generic nameOpium tincture
Also known asDropizol
SponsorAsbjørn Mohr Drewes
Drug classOpioid analgesic
TargetMu opioid receptor (primary); delta and kappa opioid receptors (secondary)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaPain management; Gastroenterology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

The active alkaloids in opium tincture act as agonists at mu, delta, and kappa opioid receptors, modulating pain perception and emotional response to pain in the central nervous system. These compounds also reduce gastrointestinal motility and secretion, making opium tincture historically useful for diarrhea management. The sedative and anxiolytic properties result from opioid receptor activation in the brain.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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