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Nov . 09, 2024 23:30 Back to list

Exploring the Uses and Risks of Phenacetin CAS 62-44-2 in Pharmaceuticals



Phenacetin Its History, Use, and Controversies


Phenacetin, a compound with the chemical formula C8H9NO2 and a CAS number of 62-44-2, has a storied history in the pharmaceutical world. Initially introduced as a pain reliever and antipyretic (fever reducer) in the late 19th century, phenacetin was celebrated for its effectiveness and became a common ingredient in over-the-counter medications. However, over time, the drug fell out of favor due to its association with serious health risks.


Historical Overview


Phenacetin was first synthesized in 1878 by the chemist Karl M. J. P. von M. Griess as a derivative of acetanilide. It gained popularity in the early 20th century and became widely available in combination with other analgesics that aimed to alleviate pain. The compound was marketed under various brand names and often used in multicomponent formulations designed to treat headaches, muscle pains, and fevers, making it a household staple for many individuals suffering from minor ailments.


Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action of phenacetin, like that of other analgesics, primarily involves the inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. By blocking these enzymes, phenacetin reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins, chemicals in the body that promote inflammation, fever, and pain. This mechanism was instrumental in its effectiveness as a pain reliever, and it was often favored for its relatively rapid onset of action.


Shift in Medical Perspectives


phenacetin cas 62-44-2

phenacetin cas 62-44-2

Despite its initial success, the medical community began to raise concerns about phenacetin's safety and potential side effects in the latter half of the 20th century. Research indicated that long-term use of phenacetin was linked to renal toxicity and an increased risk of developing certain cancers, particularly bladder cancer. The drug was associated with a specific form of kidney damage known as analgesic nephropathy, which prompted regulatory agencies in many countries to reconsider the safety of phenacetin.


By the 1980s, the drug was pulled from the market, primarily in the United States and several other developed nations, due to the mounting evidence of its deleterious effects. Countries like Canada and the United Kingdom had already taken steps to restrict its availability. As a result, alternatives such as acetaminophen (paracetamol), ibuprofen, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) became more widely used for pain relief.


Current Status and Legacy


Today, phenacetin is no longer used as a pharmaceutical agent in most parts of the world. However, it remains a subject of interest in the fields of pharmacology and toxicology. Studies on its metabolism, mechanism of action, and long-term health effects have provided significant insights into the safe design of analgesics and have guided regulatory practices in the pharmaceutical industry.


In addition to its historical significance, phenacetin acts as a reminder of the importance of constant vigilance in drug safety evaluation. The lessons learned from the phenacetin era have influenced how new drugs are developed and monitored for side effects, ultimately resulting in a more cautious approach to pharmaceutical approval processes.


Conclusion


Phenacetin is a poignant example of a medicinal compound that, despite its effectiveness, posed substantial health risks that overshadowed its benefits. The story of phenacetin serves as a valuable learning experience in the pharmacological community, underscoring the necessity for rigorous testing and monitoring of drugs even after they have gained widespread acceptance. Today, we have a range of safer alternatives to meet our pain relief needs, thanks to the lessons learned from phenacetin's rise and fall in the world of medicine. The legacy of this once-popular analgesic will continue to influence how medications are evaluated and prescribed, ensuring that patient safety remains a top priority.


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