Noun
A poisonous alkaloid, C19H21NO3, found in opium in small quantities, having a sharp, astringent taste, and a tetanic action resembling that of strychnine.
Source: Webster's dictionaryA shortage in codeine-hydrocodone class cough suppressants (all of which can be made from morphine in one or more steps, as well as from codeine or thebaine) was the initial reason for the research. Source: Internet
Butorphanol can also be derived from thebaine and is scheduled separately from butorphanol derived by other processes. Source: Internet
It was hoped that a thebaine -derived drug would retain the analgesic effects of morphine and heroin with less dependence. Source: Internet