Compound Monograph
Papaverine
Papaverine is a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid of the opium poppy used as a smooth-muscle relaxant and vasodilator.
Classification
Papaverine is a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, part of the alkaloids class. Nitrogen-containing, often bitter and physiologically potent compounds — the group behind many of the strongest plant medicines and poisons.
Where Does It Come From? (1)
Papaverine is a naturally occurring benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, found in Opium poppy. It is flagged as moderately toxic.
Research & Evidence
Papaverine is one of the alkaloids of the opium poppy, but unlike morphine and codeine it is not an opioid and is not strongly analgesic or narcotic. Instead it is a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid that relaxes smooth muscle and dilates blood vessels, an effect attributed largely to inhibition of the enzyme phosphodiesterase. Medically it has been used as an antispasmodic and vasodilator, including in the management of certain circulatory and erectile conditions.
Toxicity & Safety
Papaverine is a medicine rather than a recreational substance and is used under clinical supervision. Reported effects include flushing, low blood pressure, dizziness and, with some formulations, effects on the liver and heart rhythm. It has a relatively short half-life of roughly 1.5 to 2 hours.