Noscapine

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Noscapine
Systematic (IUPAC) name
?
Identifiers
CAS number	912-60-7
ATC code	R05DA07
PubChem	4544
Chemical data
Formula	C22H23NO7
Mol. weight	413.421
Pharmacokinetic data
Bioavailability	?
Metabolism	?
Half life	?
Excretion	?
Therapeutic considerations
Pregnancy cat.	?
Legal status
Routes	?

Noscapine (also known as Narcotine) is an opioid agonist without significant analgesic properties [1]. It is grouped as part of the benzylisoquinolines, of which papaverine is also included. This agent is primarily used for its antitussive (cough-suppressing) effects. It has also been shown to have anticancer activity (PDF file).

[edit] Mechanism of action

Noscapine's antitussive effects appear to be primarily mediated by its sigma receptor agonist activity. Evidence for this mechanism is suggested by experimental evidence in rats. Pretreatment with rimcazole,a sigma specific antagonist, causes a dose-dependent reduction in antitussive activity of noscapine [2].

[edit] Noscapine Abuse

Noscapine(Nospen)has a history of OTC abuse in a several countries being readily available from local pharmacies as a prescription drug. The effects, beginning around 45 to 120 mins after consumption, are similar to dextromethorphan (DXM) and alcohol intoxication.

Effects -Loss of coordination -Hallucinations (auditory and visual) -Loss of sexual drive -Swelling of prostate -Loss of appetite -Dilated pupils -Increased heart rate -Shaking and muscle spasms -Increased alertness -Loss of any sleepiness -Loss of stereoscopic vision

The effects shown above are not permanent, the user may experience spasms the following day after yawning. It is possible to over dose (20+ pills) and avoid taking any other drug in combination to this medication. WARNING: Do not take noscapine with any MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors), unknown and potentially fatal effects may occur. There are no significant contraindications listed for this drug but caution should be exercised.