Synthesis and Pharmacologic Characterization of an Alkylating Analog (Chlornaltrexamine), of Naltrexone with Ultralong-Lasting Narcotic Antagonist Properties

Chlornaltrexamine (CNA) produces ultralong-lasting (3-6 days) narcotic antagonism in mice and persistent stereospecific binding to rat-brain homogenate. Protection studies in mice suggest that CNA mediates its narcotic antagonist effects by interacting with the same receptors that are occupied by naloxone. A single icv dose of CNA also has been found to inhibit the development of physical dependence in mice for at least 3 days. These studies suggest that CNA exerts its sustained effects by selective covalent association with opioid receptors.