Norflurazepam Product Description

Introduction

Norflurazepam, also known as N-desalkylflurazepam or 2-oxoquazepam, is an active metabolite of several benzodiazepine drugs including flurazepam, quazepam, and fludiazepam. It belongs to the benzodiazepine class and exhibits anxiolytic, sedative, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties. Norflurazepam has a long elimination half-life, contributing to the prolonged effects of its parent compounds. It is used in research environments to study benzodiazepine metabolism and pharmacodynamics.

Chemical Properties and Specifications

Structural and Molecular Characteristics

• Chemical Formula: C15H10ClFN2O

• Molecular Weight: 288.70 g/mol

• CAS Number: 2886-65-9

• IUPAC Name: 7-chloro-5-(2-fluorophenyl)-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one

• Synonyms: Norflurazepam, N-desalkylflurazepam, 2-oxoquazepam

Physical Properties and Purity

• Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder

• Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions

• Storage: Keep in a cool, dry, dark place

Pharmacological Profile and Mechanism of Action

• Acts as a positive allosteric modulator of the GABA-A receptor, enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission in the central nervous system

• Produces typical benzodiazepine effects: sedation, anxiolysis, muscle relaxation, and anticonvulsant activity

• Long elimination half-life (47 to 150 hours), causing prolonged pharmacological effects and potential accumulation

Research Applications

• Study of benzodiazepine metabolism and pharmacokinetics

• Forensic toxicology and analytical identification of benzodiazepine metabolites

• Investigations into receptor binding and pharmacodynamics

Safety and Handling

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and eye protection

• Handle in well-ventilated lab spaces to minimize exposure

• Dispose of according to hazardous chemical waste guidelines

Regulatory Status

• Controlled in many countries due to its benzodiazepine classification

• For research and analytical use only; not approved for human consumption

• Verify local and international regulations before handling

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is norflurazepam?
   An active benzodiazepine metabolite with sedative and anxiolytic effects.

2. What is its chemical formula?
   C15H10ClFN2O.

3. How does it work?
   Positively modulates GABA-A receptor activity producing CNS depression.

4. What is the half-life?
   Long, ranging between 47 and 150 hours.

5. How should it be stored?
   In a cool, dry, and dark place.

Conclusion

Norflurazepam is a long-lasting active metabolite of various benzodiazepines, essential for research into benzodiazepine pharmacology, toxicology, and forensic science. Proper safety protocols and regulatory compliance are required for its use.