Structure
| Chemical Name | Hydrocodone |
| Chemical Formula | C18H21NO3 |
| Molar Mass | 299.4g/mol |
| Percent Composition by Mass |
C x 18 =41.86% H x 21 = 48.84% N x 1 = 2.326% O x 3 = 6.977% |
| Percent Composition by Number |
C x 18 =72.20% H x 21 = 7.084% N x 1 = 4.679% O x 3 = 16.03% |
| Melting Point | 189°C |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable |
| Appearance | White to pale yellow crystals |
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol; insoluble in water |
| Density | 1.32g/cm3 |
| Type of Bonding | Covalent |
| Natural Abundance | Not applicable |
Explanation of Structure
The hydrocodone structure is composed of four elements: carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen. These elements are held together through covalent bonds between the atoms. The chemical structure of hydrocodone is similar to codeine. Hydrocodone is one of the weaker opioid agonists. Opioid agonists are substances that act by attaching to specific proteins called opioid receptors, which are found in the brain, spinal cord, and gastrointestinal tract. When these drugs attach to certain opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord they can effectively block the transmission of pain messages to the brain.