levomethadone

Levomethadone is the active enantiomer (R-enantiomer) of methadone, a synthetic opioid analgesic and antitussive. It is primarily used in Europe for the treatment of opioid dependence and as an analgesic for severe pain. Levomethadone acts as a potent agonist at the μ-opioid receptor (MOR), with significantly higher affinity and intrinsic activity than its S-enantiomer (dextromethadone), making it about twice as potent as racemic methadone by weight. In addition to its primary action on μ-opioid receptors, levomethadone also functions as a weak competitive antagonist at N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors and a noncompetitive antagonist at α3β4 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. These additional mechanisms may contribute to its efficacy in neuropathic pain management and reduction of opioid tolerance or craving. Levomethadone has been developed into long-acting formulations for improved management of opioid use disorder[1][2][3][4][5][6].

Brand names

L-Polamidon

Other names

(-)-6-dimethylamino-4,4-diphenylheptan-3-one hydrochloride(-)-methadone hydrochlorideLevoMTD