Levorphanol
Pain
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Opioid Agonist
Controlled Drug Substance
YES
Levorphanol
Summary
Levorphanol is used to manage severe pain, particularly in patients who cannot be treated with other pain medications. It's often used in chronic pain conditions such as cancer-related pain.
Levorphanol is an opioid analgesic that alters the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain. It primarily targets the mu-opioid receptor, changing the perception of and emotional response to pain, providing analgesic effects.
Levorphanol is typically prescribed for adults in doses of 1 to 2 mg every 6 to 8 hours as needed for pain. It's not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age.
Common side effects of Levorphanol include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, and constipation. Serious adverse effects can include respiratory depression, severe hypotension, and serotonin syndrome.
Levorphanol carries a risk of addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death. It can cause life-threatening respiratory depression, especially when combined with alcohol or other CNS depressants. It's contraindicated in patients with severe asthma, respiratory depression, or gastrointestinal obstruction.
Indications and Purpose
How does Levorphanol work?
Levorphanol is a full opioid agonist that primarily targets the mu-opioid receptor in the brain and nervous system. It alters the perception of pain and emotional response to pain by mimicking the effects of natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body.
Is Levorphanol effective?
Levorphanol is an opioid analgesic that works by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain. Clinical trials have shown it to be effective in managing severe pain, particularly in cancer patients and those who cannot be treated with other pain medications.
What is Levorphanol?
Levorphanol is an opioid analgesic used to relieve severe pain in patients who cannot be treated with other pain medications. It works by altering the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain signals. Due to its potential for addiction and serious side effects, it should be used under strict medical supervision.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Levorphanol?
Levorphanol is typically used for short-term pain management. The duration of use depends on the individual's pain management needs and should be determined by a healthcare provider. Long-term use is generally not recommended due to the risk of addiction and other side effects.
How do I take Levorphanol?
Levorphanol can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help reduce nausea. There are no specific food restrictions, but patients should avoid alcohol and consult their healthcare provider about any dietary concerns while taking this medication.
How long does it take for Levorphanol to start working?
Levorphanol is well absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring approximately 1 hour after dosing. Patients may begin to feel pain relief within this time frame, but individual responses can vary.
How should I store Levorphanol?
Store Levorphanol in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and in a location not easily accessible by others. Dispose of any unused medication properly, preferably through a take-back program or by flushing it down the toilet if no program is available.
What is the usual dose of Levorphanol?
For adults, the usual dose of Levorphanol is 1 to 2 mg every 6 to 8 hours as needed for pain. The dose may be increased to 3 mg every 6 to 8 hours if necessary. There is no confirmed data on the dosage for children. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Levorphanol with other prescription drugs?
Levorphanol can interact with benzodiazepines, other CNS depressants, and alcohol, increasing the risk of severe sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. It may also interact with serotonergic drugs, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to avoid harmful interactions.
Can Levorphanol be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Levorphanol passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant, causing increased sleepiness, breathing difficulties, or limpness. Breastfeeding mothers should consult their healthcare provider to discuss the risks and consider alternative pain management options.
Can Levorphanol be taken safely while pregnant?
Levorphanol should be used with caution during pregnancy, as prolonged use can cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening. There is limited data on its effects on fetal development, so it is important to consult a healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Levorphanol?
Drinking alcohol while taking Levorphanol is not safe. Alcohol can increase the risk of serious side effects, including breathing problems, sedation, and even death. It is advised to avoid alcohol completely during treatment with Levorphanol.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Levorphanol?
Levorphanol can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and fatigue, which may limit your ability to exercise safely. It is important to understand how the medication affects you before engaging in physical activities. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice on exercising while taking Levorphanol.
Is Levorphanol safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of Levorphanol, including respiratory depression and sedation. It is recommended to start with a lower dose and monitor closely for side effects. Regular evaluation by a healthcare provider is important to ensure safe use.
Who should avoid taking Levorphanol?
Levorphanol carries risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death. It can cause serious respiratory depression, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose. It should not be used in patients with severe asthma, respiratory depression, or gastrointestinal obstruction. Alcohol and other CNS depressants should be avoided.
