The synthetic opiate Desomorphine also known as Krokodil - Research Paper Example

Due to its pharmacologic traits, desomorphine displays an increased potential of causing high dependence. Against the backdrop of initial possible cases of Krokodil use in Western Europe, it is imperative to provide information regarding the grave effects of Krokodil (Gahr, et al. 860). Desomorphine (C17H21NO2), known as dihydrodesoxymorphine was first synthesized in 1932 in United States of America. The objective of this synthesis was aimed at providing an alternative to morphine in terms of addiction properties, tolerance an enhanced side effect profile.

Conversely, desomorphine was unable to achieve the set objectives. On the contrary, this synthetic opiate portrayed amplified dependence potential in comparison to morphine. Research on this drug have indicate that its analgesic potency is between 8 to 10 times higher that that of morphine. Additionally, desomorphine shows a rapid onset of action and a shorter half-life in terms of elimination. Such properties of desomorphine may account for the elevated addictive potential in contrast to morphine (Veilleux, et al 161).

In the recent past, there have been drastic occurrences in the number of cases in abuse of synthetic narcotics that are produced by handicraft techniques from codeine containing medicines. Various over the counter tablets and drugs supplied at cost friendly prices can be used for the synthesis of such synthetic opiates. These codeine containing drugs are exemplified by commercial names such as Codelac, Sedal-M and Codterpin. The total amount of codeine in such medicines is in the range of 8-10 milligrams.

Systematically referred to as 4, 5-α-epoxy-17-methylmorphinan-3-ol, desomorphine is obtained from codeine containing tablets with the use of phosphorus and iodine. In comparison to codeine itself, this synthetic derivative shows significant strength on impact to the body. Major drawbacks are encountered in the descriptions of possible byproducts in