Propiram is an orally administered
opioid analgesic with partial
morphine-like agonist and weak antagonist properties.
Analgesic efficacy of
propiram, usually 50 or 100mg, appears comparable to that of standard dosages of other oral
opioid drugs [i.e.
pentazocine,
pethidine (
meperidine)] in patients with
acute pain of moderate to severe intensity arising from various gynaecological and
surgical procedures, and may be superior to
codeine in gynaecological and postoperative dental
pain. Some evidence of a more rapid onset of action for
propiram than for these
opioid agents, and a longer duration of action for
propiram than for
codeine, is encouraging but remains to be substantiated in more extensive clinical use. The tolerability profile of
propiram resembles those of others in its class, with drowsiness,
nausea and
vomiting, and
dizziness experienced most frequently in controlled trials. The apparently low propensity of
propiram for development of physical dependence and psychotomimetic effects requires confirmation with wider clinical experience. Available data thus indicate that
propiram is an effective, orally administered
opioid analgesic suitable for providing relief of acute moderate to severe
pain arising from various surgical or gynaecological procedures, and that the
drug is likely to become a useful alternative in such conditions where
opioid analgesia is appropriate.