Dermorphin (Dermorphin (Opioid Heptapeptide))
A naturally occurring opioid heptapeptide originally isolated from the skin of South American frogs. It is an extremely potent mu-opioid agonist studied for analgesia, and is included here strictly for educational reference given its controlled, high-risk profile.
How it works
Binds mu-opioid receptors with very high affinity and selectivity, producing potent analgesia. Its unusual D-alanine residue makes it resistant to breakdown, contributing to a much stronger effect than morphine on a per-weight basis.
Key facts
- Molecular weight: 803.9 Da
- Half-life: Short (peptide)
- Bioavailability: Injection (research)
- Storage: Lyophilized: -20°C (research material).
Dosing overview
- Typical dose: Not established for human use
- Frequency: Research only
- Duration: Research only
- Route: Injection (research)
Protocol notes
- No validated or approved human dosing exists; use outside research is unsafe and often illegal.
- It is dramatically more potent than morphine, so misuse carries a high overdose and respiratory-depression risk.
- Included for educational completeness only.
Reported benefits
- Potent analgesia (research context)
- High mu-opioid receptor selectivity (research interest)
Possible side effects
- Respiratory depression
- Sedation
- Dependence and addiction risk
- Overdose risk
- No approved human use
Research
- Dermorphin opioid potency (2010): Characterized as a highly potent, selective mu-opioid agonist far stronger than morphine by weight.
Compare Dermorphin
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.