Phenacetin A Guide to Suppliers and Usage

Phenacetin, a pharmaceutical compound with the CAS number 62-44-2, has a storied history in medicinal chemistry. Initially introduced as an analgesic and antipyretic, it was widely used for pain relief and reducing fever. However, its use diminished due to safety concerns, including its association with kidney damage and carcinogenic effects. Today, while Phenacetin is largely banned in many countries, it remains a salient topic within the realm of pharmaceutical research and supplier inquiry.

Historical Context

Phenacetin was first synthesized in the 19th century and became popular in the early 20th century. It was often included in combination medications for headaches, muscle pain, and fever. Due to its efficacy, it was favored over other analgesics. Nevertheless, the drug's reputation suffered significantly when studies began to associate long-term use with adverse health effects such as nephropathy and cancer. By the 1980s, many countries had removed Phenacetin from the market altogether.

Despite these risks, Phenacetin's role as a precursor in the synthesis of other compounds and its application in laboratory settings has kept it relevant among specific circles in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. This has fostered a demand for reliable suppliers to provide this compound for research and development purposes.

Suppliers of Phenacetin

Finding quality suppliers of Phenacetin is essential, especially for research institutions and laboratories. When sourcing Phenacetin, one must consider several criteria to ensure that they are obtaining high-purity materials from reputable suppliers.

1. Purity and Quality It's crucial to verify the purity of Phenacetin offered by suppliers. High-purity Phenacetin is required for any analytical or research purposes. Suppliers should provide certificates of analysis to assure customers of the quality.

2. Regulatory Compliance Given the concerns surrounding Phenacetin, suppliers must adhere to strict regulatory guidelines. This includes compliance with local and international regulations for the handling and distribution of chemicals.

3. Reputation and Reliability Suppliers with a strong reputation in the industry tend to provide better products and services. Online reviews, industry ratings, and customer testimonials are useful indicators of a supplier's reliability.

4. Range of Products Some suppliers may offer a broader range of related chemicals, which can be beneficial for research purposes. Depending on the specific needs, it might be worthwhile to consider suppliers that stock both Phenacetin and its derivatives.

5. Technical Support Good suppliers often provide excellent customer service and technical support. This can be invaluable when troubleshooting issues related to product handling or intended applications.

6. Global Shipping Researchers might be working in various locations. A supplier that can facilitate global shipping will be advantageous in ensuring that materials are delivered promptly.

Potential Applications

While many of Phenacetin’s historical uses have been withdrawn from the public pharmacopoeia, it still has relevance in specific research environments. Its role in the synthesis of other compounds, such as para-aminophenol, marks it as an essential building block in medicinal chemistry. Academic and industrial researchers continue to explore its properties for innovative applications in drug development.

Furthermore, analyses involving Phenacetin can provide insights into metabolic pathways, toxicology, and the pharmacokinetic properties of similar compounds. As research progresses into pain management and anti-inflammatory therapies, the understanding garnered from Phenacetin could inform safer alternatives.

Conclusion

In summary, while Phenacetin (CAS 62-44-2) is not often found in modern medicinal formulations due to its safety profile, it maintains an important role in pharmaceutical research and chemical synthesis. For researchers and laboratories in need of this compound, sourcing it from reputable suppliers is essential. With considerations for purity, compliance, and reliable service, a suitable supplier can significantly support ongoing research endeavors. As the scientific community continues to explore the boundaries of medicinal chemistry, Phenacetin’s legacy may provide valuable insights into safer and more effective pain management solutions in the future.