ACETANILIDE

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Context:

Five individuals were hospitalised in Visakhapatnam after inhaling acetanilide powder.

About Acetanilide

• Acetanilide is an odourless chemical compound that appears as a colourless or white crystalline powder.
• It is also known as N-phenylacetamide or acetanil, and it is chemically related to acetic acid.
• Acetanilide is produced by a chemical reaction between aniline and acetic anhydride.
• It was recognized for reducing pain and reducing fever and was used as an alternative to aspirin for treating headaches, menstrual cramps, and rheumatism.
• It was first used in medical practice in 1886 under the name Antifebrin. However, its use was limited due to serious side effects:
  • • Cyanosis: This condition causes a bluish colour to the skin due to a lack of oxygen.
    • Methemoglobinemia: A blood disorder where haemoglobin is unable to carry oxygen effectively.
    • Liver and Kidney Damage: Extended use could harm these vital organs.
• In the mid-20th century, researchers found paracetamol as a safer and more effective alternative, leading to the end of acetanilide as a medical treatment.

Modern-day Applications

• It slows down hydrogen peroxide decomposition.
• Used to prevent decay in cellulose derivative coatings.
• It contributes to the production of rubber accelerators, colours, and camphor.

Health Risks

• Exposure to acetanilide can lead to several health risks, especially when inhaled or ingested.
• Symptoms include coughing, difficulty breathing, and throat irritation.
• It can result in gastrointestinal problems.
• Long-term exposure can result in chronic respiratory challenges.

Source:

The Hindu

Wikipedia

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Consider the following statements about the Acetanilide: 1. It is an odourless chemical compound that appears as an orange crystalline powder. 2. It is chemically related to acetic acid. 3. It is commonly used for relieving pain and reducing fever. 4. It plays a key role in the production of camphor. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: A) 2 and 3 only B) 2 and 4 only C) 1, 3 and 4 only D) 1, 2, 3 and 4   Answer: B Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: Acetanilide is an odourless chemical compound that appears as a colourless or white crystalline powder. Statement 2 is correct: Acetanilide's chemical characteristics and structure connect it to acetic acid. Statement 3 is incorrect: Acetanilide was once used as a pain reliever and fever reducer. However, due to its serious side effects, it has been widely replaced by safer alternatives such as paracetamol. Statement 4 is correct: Acetanilide is used to synthesise a variety of compounds, including camphor.