Products
Piritramid is available in Germany and Austria as a solution for injection (Dipidolor). No drugs containing the active ingredient are approved in many countries.
Structure and properties
Piritramide (C27H34N4O, Mr = 430.6 g/mol) is a diphenylpropylamine derivative developed at Janssen. It is structurally related to pethidine and fentanyl.
Effects
Piritramide (ATC N02AC03) has analgesic and depressant properties. The effects are due to binding to μ-opioid receptors. Analgesic potency is somewhat less than that of morphine. Effects are rapid in onset and last 5 to 8 hours. The half-life ranges from 4 to 10 hours.
Indications
For the treatment of severe pain.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is injected intramuscularly, subcutaneously, or intravenously.
Abuse
Like all opioids, piritramide can be abused as a depressant and euphoric intoxicant.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Comatose states
- Respiratory depression
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Piritramide is metabolized primarily by CYP3A4 and corresponding drug-drug interactions are possible. Other interactions have been described with central depressant drugs and MAO inhibitors.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure, stupor, dizziness, somnolence, nausea, vomiting, and pallor. Piritramide may cause respiratory depression.
