Norhydrocodone

Norhydrocodone.svg

Norhydrocodone is a metabolite of the opioid hydrocodone. It is formed in the body through the process of N-demethylation by the enzyme cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Norhydrocodone is one of the primary metabolites of hydrocodone, along with hydromorphone.

Pharmacology

Norhydrocodone is pharmacologically active, although it is less potent than its parent compound, hydrocodone. The conversion of hydrocodone to norhydrocodone is an important pathway in the metabolism of hydrocodone, influencing both the efficacy and the side effect profile of the drug.

Metabolism

The metabolism of hydrocodone involves several pathways:

• N-demethylation to norhydrocodone, primarily mediated by CYP3A4.
• O-demethylation to hydromorphone, primarily mediated by cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6).

Clinical Significance

The formation of norhydrocodone can be influenced by various factors, including genetic polymorphisms in the CYP3A4 enzyme, drug interactions, and the presence of other substances that may inhibit or induce CYP3A4 activity. Understanding the metabolism of hydrocodone to norhydrocodone is important for optimizing pain management and minimizing adverse effects.

Detection in Biological Samples

Norhydrocodone can be detected in biological samples such as urine, blood, and hair using various analytical techniques, including liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The presence of norhydrocodone in these samples can be used to monitor compliance with hydrocodone therapy, detect potential abuse, and investigate cases of drug overdose.

See Also

• Hydrocodone
• Hydromorphone
• Cytochrome P450
• Opioid metabolism

References

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