LAAM resources

DRUG INFO
LAAM

Drug Name: LAAM


Indication: LAAM is indicated for the treatment and management of opiate dependence. It is sometimes used to treat severe pain in terminal patients.



Pharmacology: LAAM is a synthetic synthetic opioid analgesic with multiple actions quantitatively similar to those as morphine, the most prominent of which involve the central nervous system and organs composed of smooth muscle. However, LAAM is more active and more toxic than morphine. The principal actions of therapeutic value are analgesia and sedation and detoxification or temporary maintenance in narcotic addiction. The LAAM abstinence syndrome, although qualitatively similar to that of morphine, differs in that the onset is slower, the course is more prolonged, and the symptoms are less severe.

Mechanism Of Action: Opiate receptors are coupled with G-protein receptors and function as both positive and negative regulators of synaptic transmission via G-proteins that activate effector proteins. Binding of the opiate stimulates the exchange of GTP for GDP on the G-protein complex. As the effector system is adenylate cyclase and cAMP located at the inner surface of the plasma membrane, opioids decrease intracellular cAMP by inhibiting adenylate cyclase. Subsequently, the release of nociceptive neurotransmitters such as substance P, GABA, dopamine, acetylcholine and noradrenaline is inhibited. Opioids also inhibit the release of vasopressin, somatostatin, insulin and glucagon. LAAM effectively opens calcium-dependent inwardly rectifying potassium channels (OP1 receptor agonist), resulting in hyperpolarization and reduced neuronal excitability.

Drug Category: Narcotics; Analgesics, Opioid

Brand Names/Synonyms: Dea No. 9648; LAAM; Levacetilmetadol [Inn-Spanish]; Levacetylmethadol; Levacetylmethadolum [Inn-Latin]; Levo-Alphacetylmethadol; Levo-Methadyl Acetate; Levomethadyl; Levomethadyl Acetate; Levomethadyl Acetate [Usan]; Methadyl Acetate; Nor-Laam; Orlaam

Dosage Forms: SOLUTION

Absorption: LAAM is rapidly absorbed from an oral solution.

Interactions: Not Available



Chemical IUPAC Name: (6-dimethylamino-4,4-diphenyl-heptan-3-yl) acetate

Chemical Formula: C23H31NO2

Half Life: 2.6 days

Drug Type: Approved Drug

# Accession No: APRD00745

CAS Registry Number: 1477-40-3