Benzomorphans
Benzomorphans are a class of synthetic opioid analgesics. They are characterized by a core chemical structure that includes a fused benzene and morphinan ring system. This structural similarity to morphine is responsible for their interaction with opioid receptors in the central nervous system. Different benzomorphan compounds exhibit varying affinities for different opioid receptor subtypes, such as mu, kappa, and delta receptors, leading to a diverse range of pharmacological effects.
Historically, benzomorphans were developed in an effort to create potent pain relievers with a potentially reduced