levopropoxyphene

Levopropoxyphene is the (2S,3R) stereoisomer of propoxyphene and functions as an antitussive agent. It was formerly marketed in the United States under the brand name Novrad by Eli Lilly. Unlike its enantiomer dextropropoxyphene—which has analgesic effects—levopropoxyphene primarily suppresses cough with minimal to no analgesic activity. Its mechanism of action involves modulation of mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system; however, it binds poorly to sigma-1 receptors compared to other antitussives. Levopropoxyphene was approved by the FDA in 1962 but was withdrawn from the market in the 1970s due to safety concerns and limited efficacy[1][2][5][6].

Brand names

Novrad

Other names

levopropoxyphene napsylate(2S,3R)-propoxypheneL-propoxyphene