apomorphine palmitate

Apomorphine palmitate is a lipophilic ester derivative of apomorphine, formed by the conjugation of apomorphine with two molecules of palmitic acid. It is classified as a small molecule and has been investigated primarily as a slow-release formulation to provide sustained delivery of apomorphine. Apomorphine itself is a non-selective dopamine agonist that acts predominantly on D2-like (D2, D3, D4) and to a lesser extent on D1-like dopamine receptors, mimicking the action of endogenous dopamine in the brain. This mechanism underlies its use in treating motor symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders. The palmitate ester form (apomorphine palmitate) has been developed to address limitations such as rapid metabolism and short duration seen with standard formulations like apomorphine hydrochloride; it offers slower solubility and prolonged systemic exposure after subcutaneous administration[1][7][10]. Preclinical studies suggest potential applications for sustained-release treatment in Parkinson’s disease, acute myeloid leukemia, sexual dysfunction (especially antidepressant-induced), and neurological recovery post-brain injury[10].

Other names

dipalmitoyl apomorphinedihexadecanoylapomorphine