Acetophenetidin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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acetophenetidin
[ˌæsɪˈtoʊfəˈnɛtɪdɪn ]
Definition
chemical compound
Acetophenetidin, also known as phenacetin, is an analgesic and antipyretic agent. It was commonly used to relieve pain and reduce fever in the mid-20th century but has largely fallen out of favor due to safety concerns. It is now considered potentially harmful and has been banned in several countries due to its link to kidney damage and cancer.
Synonyms
acetylated para-ethoxyacetanilide, phenacetin.
Examples of usage
- Acetophenetidin was once a staple pain reliever.
- Doctors advised against using acetophenetidin for chronic pain.
- Many past medications contained acetophenetidin.
- The side effects of acetophenetidin raised concerns among researchers.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Usage
- Acetophenetidin was first synthesized in the late 19th century as part of the search for effective pain relievers.
- It was once regarded as a safer alternative to some other analgesics available at the time.
Medical Applications
- This compound is primarily used to relieve headaches, muscle pain, and fever.
- It belongs to a class of drugs known as analgesics, which help reduce pain without causing loss of consciousness.
Cultural Impact
- The introduction of this medicine added to the array of pain relief options, influencing both medical practices and consumer choices in pharmacies.
- It has been referenced in various health discussions about over-the-counter medications' effectiveness and safety.
Safety Concerns
- Overuse or high doses can lead to health issues, such as liver damage or allergic reactions.
- Due to safety profiles, its usage has declined with the introduction of newer, safer alternatives.
Origin of 'acetophenetidin'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from 'acetone' and 'phenetidin', highlighting its chemical structure and connections to other compounds.
- The name reflects its origins in organic chemistry, where compounds are often named based on their molecular components.
The term 'acetophenetidin' is derived from its chemical structure. The name consists of three parts: 'acet' refers to the acetate group, 'phen' refers to phenyl, and 'etidin' is derived from the compound's ethyl and amide components. Acetophenetidin was first synthesized in the late 19th century and was marketed as a safer alternative to acetanilide. It gained popularity in the early 1900s for its effectiveness in treating pain and fever. However, as its use became more common, adverse effects began to surface, leading to increased scrutiny. By the 1970s, with the discovery of its potential risks, including carcinogenic and nephrotoxic effects, its use declined significantly, with many countries banning or restricting its availability. Despite its historical significance, acetophenetidin is now largely viewed as an example of how initial pharmaceutical enthusiasm can be tempered by later findings about safety.