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​Orphines Naming Guide

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A new subclass of synthetic opioids known as benzimidazol-2-ones (or more commonly “orphines”) represents a complex and rapidly emerging subclass of dangerous NPS. The first orphine to circulate on the illicit drug market was Brorphine. As analogues of this substance emerged, so did the need for forensic stakeholders to quickly discuss these drugs and issue alerts in a straightforward manner. 

Teams from Cayman Chemical’s Forensic Chemistry Division and the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE)’s NPS Discovery group, at the forefront of NPS identification, worked together to establish a standardized naming framework for existing orphines and future analogues. Read more to understand the logic behind the names “N-Propionitrile Chlorphine” and “5,6-Dichloro Desmethylchlorphine.”

Suggested Citation: Denn MT, Stang BN, Layle N, St. Germaine D, Iula DM, Krotulski, AJ. (2026) Orphines Naming Guide, 
Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, United States.
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<p>​Orphines Naming Guide<br></p>
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