phenoperidine

Phenoperidine is a synthetic opioid analgesic structurally related to pethidine (meperidine), developed by replacing the N-methyl group of pethidine with a phenyl propanol chain[1][3][7]. It is characterized by high potency (20–200 times that of pethidine), rapid onset, intense peak effect, and short duration of action[1][3][7]. Phenoperidine acts as a typical morphine-like analgesic and is used primarily in general anesthesia for its strong pain-relieving properties[1][3][7]. It acts as an **agonist of the Mu-type opioid receptor**. It is metabolized in the liver—partly to norpethidine—and excreted via bile and urine[3][7]. Its clinical use has declined but it remains historically significant as a precursor in the development of neuroleptic drugs such as haloperidol and droperidol[7].

Brand names

OperidineLealgin

Other names

phenoperidine hydrochloride