Thebaine
Thebaine (CAS: 115-37-7, C19H21NO3) is a naturally occurring opioid alkaloid with a molecular weight of 311.37 g/mol. It serves as a precursor in the synthesis of other opioid compounds. Thebaine is recognised for its potent pharmacological properties and is primarily utilised in chemical synthesis and research, particularly in the fields of neuroscience and pharmacology. Available as a powder, it is handled with stringent safety precautions due to its toxicity.
- IUPAC
- Paramorphine

Precursor for Opioid Synthesis
Thebaine is a key starting material for the semi-synthesis of various opioid analgesics and related compounds, including codeine and oxycodone. Its unique chemical structure facilitates the formation of neopinone and codeinone ring systems.
Analytical Standard
Thebaine can be employed as a reference standard in analytical chemistry. For instance, it has been used as a 1 mg/ml standard in methanol for the quantitative analysis of thebaine in biological samples, such as urine, following poppy seed consumption.
Pharmacological Research
Due to its opioid agonist activity, thebaine is utilised in scientific research to investigate pain pathways, opioid receptor interactions, and the neurobiology of addiction and analgesia.
| Molecular weight | 311.37 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C19H21NO3 |
| Form | powder |
| Solubility | alcohol: soluble1 in 10 of alcoholbenzene: soluble1 in 18 in benzenechloroform: soluble50 mg/ml, clear, yellowdiethyl ether: soluble1 in 135 of etherH2O: insoluble |
| Application | Thebaine has been used for the synthesis of neopinone/codeinone ring systems1. Thebaine has also been used as a 1 mg/ml standard in methanol for urine thebaine analysis in individuals who had consumed poppy seeds2. |

Hazard statements
- H301Toxic if swallowed
- H310Fatal in contact with skin
- H330Fatal if inhaled
Precautionary statements
- P260Do not breathe dust, fume, gas, mist, vapours or spray
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P284Wear respiratory protection
- P301IF SWALLOWED
- P302IF ON SKIN
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face particle respirator type N100 (US), Gloves, respirator cartridge type N100 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter, type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 1544 6.1/PG 2 |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T+ |
| Risk statements (R) | 26/27/28 |
| Safety statements (S) | 22-36/37/39-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Drug Control | USDEA Schedule II; Home Office Schedule 2; stup |
|---|
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Thebaine used for?
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Thebaine (CAS: 115-37-7) is primarily used as a precursor in the synthesis of other opioid compounds and as a standard in analytical chemistry and pharmacological research.
What is the CAS number and formula for Thebaine?
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The CAS number for Thebaine is 115-37-7, and its empirical formula is C19H21NO3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for Thebaine?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Thebaine as a powder. The specific assay and purity are detailed in the product's specification sheet, which is available upon request. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade unless explicitly stated in the specifications.
How should Thebaine be handled safely?
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Thebaine is highly toxic and requires stringent safety precautions. It is classified with GHS06, signal word Danger, with hazard statements H301, H310, and H330. Appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields, gloves, and respiratory protection (N100 or P3 filters), must be used. Handle only in well-ventilated areas or fume hoods.
Is Thebaine a controlled substance?
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Yes, Thebaine is a controlled substance. It is listed under USDEA Schedule II and Home Office Schedule 2, indicating strict regulatory controls on its handling, possession, and distribution.
How is Thebaine shipped and exported?
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Thebaine is shipped and exported in accordance with all relevant national and international regulations for controlled and hazardous substances, including UN 1544, Class 6.1, Packing Group II.
How can I request a quote or sample for Thebaine?
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To request a quote or a sample of Thebaine, please contact our sales department through the TSS website or by calling our customer service line. Our team will assist you with your inquiry.
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