The active ingredient in REL-1017 is esmethadone
REL-1017 interacts with a family of brain receptors called N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, which are unique and distinct from other brain receptors 1. By interacting with NMDA receptors, REL-1017 may relieve depression 2. The active ingredient in REL-1017 tablets is esmethadone. Esmethadone is also sometimes referred to as dextro-methadone or d-methadone. Opioid effects, such as dissociation, withdrawal symptoms and drug likability, have not been seen with esmethadone.