Question:

Which structural feature is essential for opioid analgesic activity?

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Opioid painkillers, like morphine, fit into special opioid receptors in the body. Certain parts of the molecule are needed for this binding and for good pain relief.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Carboxylic acid group
  • Phenolic hydroxyl group
  • Ester Linkage
  • Sulfonemide group
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept:
Opioid painkillers, like morphine, fit into special opioid receptors in the body. Certain parts of the molecule are needed for this binding and for good pain relief.

Step 1:
A key part of morphine and similar opioids is the phenolic hydroxyl group (an -OH attached to an aromatic ring). This group helps the drug bind to the receptor and is important for strong analgesic activity.

Step 2:
A carboxylic acid group, an ester linkage, or a sulfonamide group are not the essential feature for opioid pain relief, so the other options are incorrect.

Answer: Option (2) — Phenolic hydroxyl group.
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