Understanding Phenacetin CAS 62-44-2 and Its Suppliers
Phenacetin, chemically known as N-(4-ethoxyphenyl)acetamide and bearing the CAS number 62-44-2, has a storied history in the pharmaceutical industry. Once widely used for its analgesic and antipyretic properties, phenacetin was a popular choice for alleviating pain and reducing fever. However, due to its association with serious side effects, including nephrotoxicity and potential links to certain cancers, its use has become restricted or banned in many countries. Nevertheless, phenacetin remains a compound of interest in chemical research and the production of other chemical entities.
Chemistry and Applications
Phenacetin is a white, odorless crystalline powder that is soluble in organic solvents, including ethanol and acetone, but only sparingly soluble in water. Its structure features an ethoxy group attached to an acetaminophen backbone, which imparts its analgesic properties similar to paracetamol (acetaminophen). Despite its decline in clinical use, phenacetin has found relevance in various research applications, such as in the synthesis of new compounds or the study of pharmacological properties.
Suppliers of Phenacetin
For research and industrial purposes, sourcing high-quality phenacetin is essential. Numerous chemical suppliers worldwide offer this compound, catering to laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, and research institutions. When searching for phenacetin suppliers, it is crucial to consider several factors
1. Purity and Quality Reputable suppliers provide detailed specifications regarding the purity of their phenacetin. Typically, high-purity grades (99% or higher) are preferred for research applications.
2. Regulatory Compliance Given phenacetin's historical issues regarding safety, it is important to select suppliers who comply with local regulations and provide the necessary documentation, such as a Certificate of Analysis (CoA).
3. Supply Chain Reliability Establishing a relationship with suppliers who have a well-defined logistics network ensures that you receive your orders on time, which is critical for research timelines.
4. Customer Support and Technical Assistance Good suppliers offer customer service and technical support to assist with any issues that may arise during the ordering process or while using the product in research.
5. Pricing While price should not be the sole consideration, it is important to compare the costs from various suppliers to ensure you receive a fair deal without compromising quality.
Conclusion
While phenacetin’s clinical relevance has diminished, its role in scientific research continues to be significant. The search for reputable suppliers of phenacetin requires attention to quality, regulatory compliance, and customer service. By carefully evaluating potential suppliers, researchers can ensure they have access to high-quality materials for their work. As the scientific community continues to explore the compound’s properties and potential applications, both historical context and current sourcing practices will play pivotal roles in guiding research endeavors involving phenacetin. Whether in the laboratory or in industrial applications, having the right supplier can make all the difference in achieving successful results.