Mitragynine

BeschreibungThis alkaloid has been isolated from Mitragyna speciosa Korth, and is amorphous although it yields a series of crystalline salts and derivatives. The hydrochloride crystallizes as colourless leaflets from EtOH-Et20 with m.p. 243°C; the picrate forms thin, orange-red needles, m.p. 223-4°C and the methiodide is a pale yellow powder which, although amorphous, has a sharp melting point of 21 1. 5°C. The alkaloid also forms compounds with acetic acid, m.p. 142°C, decomposing at 175-6°, and with trichloroacetic acid, m.p. 157°C.Mitragynine exerts a general depressant effect on plain muscle and facilitates the passage of autonomic impulses. It is, however, ineffective against pathogenic organisms.

VerwendenA neurochemical, having both stimulant and opiate-like effects depending on the dosage. Currently, Mitragynin is being investigated for its ability to treat hard drug addiction.