Pantopon

Pantopon is a trade name for a preparation of injectable opiates formerly used as a general analgesic. It is a mixture of hydrochlorides of opium alkaloids, formulated to represent the total alkaloids of opium. Unlike morphine, which is a single isolated alkaloid, Pantopon contains all the alkaloids in roughly the same proportions found in opium itself, including morphine, codeine, papaverine, and thebaine. The intention behind using a mixed alkaloid preparation was to potentially provide broader pain relief and minimize side effects compared to using morphine alone. It was marketed as having a gentler onset and longer duration of action compared to pure morphine.

Pantopon's composition meant its potency was typically expressed in terms of its morphine content. A typical dose would be equivalent to a particular dose of morphine.

Due to increasing availability and standardization of single-alkaloid opioid analgesics, as well as concerns regarding the variability in alkaloid ratios between different batches, Pantopon has largely been discontinued and replaced by more refined and predictable pain management medications. Its usage has declined significantly in modern medicine.