Heroin
Generic: Diamorphine
Medicinal Chemistry
Molecular Weight
369.42
Molecular Formula
C21H23NO5
IUPAC Name
(5alpha,6alpha)-7,8-didehydro-4,5-epoxy-17-methylmorphinan-3,6-diol diacetate
Pharmacognosy
Biological Source
Semi-synthetic from Morphine (Papaver somniferum)
Active Constituents
Morphine (precursor)
Pharmacology & Synthesis
Mechanism of Action
Rapidly crosses BBB and is deacetylated to 6-MAM and morphine; potent mu-opioid agonist.
Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
A: Rapidly absorbed via IV/Inhalation.
D: Highly lipophilic, extremely rapid BBB crossing.
M: Rapid hydrolysis by blood esterases.
E: Renal.
Pharmacodynamics
Intense euphoria, profound analgesia, severe respiratory depression.
Synthesis Pathway
Acetylation of morphine with acetic anhydride.
Safety, Warnings & Interactions
Adverse Effects
Addiction, respiratory depression, constipation.
Contraindications
Non-medical use; severe respiratory instability.
Drug Interactions
Severe synergy with alcohol and CNS depressants.
Pharmaceutics & Compendia
Dosage Forms
Injection, Illicit powders
Official Compendia
BP