Molecular Pharmacology, Vol 7, 480-483, Copyright © 1971 by the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics

An Investigation into the Mechanism of Cytotoxicity of Levorphanol

¹ Departments of Pathology and Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016

Levorphanol, a synthetic analogue of morphine (L-3-hydroxy-N-methylmorphinan tartrate), has been reported to inhibit RNA synthesis. The effect of this compound upon the replication of Sindbis virus and upon the host cells in culture was studied. Propagation of the virus as well as synthesis of RNA and protein by the cells was inhibited by the drug. Light microscopic examination of the treated cells revealed extensive morphological alterations at doses lower than those which produced biochemical effects. These results indicate that levorphanol has cytotoxic activity other than its ability to diminish RNA synthesis.