Drug reference
butorphanol
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Musculoskeletal (Opioids)
Mechanism of action
Narcotic agonist-analgesic of kappa opiate receptors and partial agonist of mu opiate receptors; inhibits ascending pain pathways, which causes alteration in response to pain; produces analgesia, respiratory depression, and sedation
Common side effects
- Insomnia
- Sedation
- Dizziness
- Nasal congestion
- Nausea and/or vomiting
Contraindications
- Absolute: opioid dependence, respiratory depression, respiratory failure Relative: cardiac arrhythmias, cardiovascular disease, coronary insufficiency, myocardial infarction, toxin-mediated diarrhea
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is butorphanol?
butorphanol belongs to: Musculoskeletal.
How does butorphanol work?
Narcotic agonist-analgesic of kappa opiate receptors and partial agonist of mu opiate receptors; inhibits ascending pain pathways, which causes alteration in response to pain; produces analgesia, respiratory depression, and sedation
What are the common side effects of butorphanol?
Insomnia, Sedation, Dizziness, Nasal congestion, Nausea and/or vomiting
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