Products
Levomethadone was approved in many countries in 2014 as an oral solution (L-polamidone). It was available earlier in Germany.
Structure and properties
Levomethadone (C21H27NO, Mr = 309.4 g/mol) is present in the drug as levomethadone hydrochloride, a white crystalline powder that is soluble in water. It is the active -enantiomer of the racemate methadone, which has mainly analgesic activity.
Effects
Levomethadone (ATC N02AC06) has analgesic and depressant properties. The effects are primarily due to binding to µ-opioid receptors in the central nervous system. Levomethadone is also an NMDA antagonist and has a duration of action of approximately 4 to 6 hours. The half-life is long, ranging from 14 to 55 hours.
Indications
- Pain
- As substitution therapy for opioid dependence.
Dosage
According to the professional information. When dosing, it is important to note that levomethadone is about twice as potent as the racemate because it contains only the active ingredient.
