pentazocine

Pentazocine is a synthetic opioid analgesic used to treat moderate to severe pain and as part of anesthesia for surgery. It is classified as a mixed agonist-antagonist opioid, primarily acting as an agonist at kappa-type opioid receptor and as a weak antagonist or partial agonist at mu-type opioid receptor. This dual action alters the perception of pain in the central nervous system while limiting some of the euphoric effects typical of other opioids. Pentazocine is available in oral and injectable forms, with its onset of action occurring within 15 minutes and an elimination half-life of 2 to 3 hours. The drug was originally developed by Sterling Drug (now part of Bayer) and marketed under brand names such as Talwin[1][4][7]. Its use carries risks common to opioids, including respiratory depression, dependence, withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation, and unique side effects like hallucinations or delusions[5][7].

Brand names

TalwinTalwin Lactate

Other names

PentazocinePentazocine lactatePentazocine hydrochloride