Nalmefene hydrochloride

Nalmefene hydrochloride has been introduced in the U.S.A. for opioid reversal following surgery, and in the reversal of opioid overdoses and epidurally administered narcotics. Nalmefene is an opioid antagonist that inhibits respiratory, analgesic and subjective effects of opioids. It has a higher potency, a longer duration of action, and superior bioavailability than the structurally related naltrexone. Nalmefene has a wide spectrum of biological activity and is in clinical trials for the treatment of interstitial cystitis, recalcitrant pruritus of cholestasis, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, shock, CNS trauma, and alcoholism. Studies indicate that nalmefene does not induce morphine-like effects and has no apparent abuse potential.