ACETANILIDE
: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
NEWS
:
Five hospitalised after inhaling some chemical compound in Andhra Pradesh’s
Vizag
WHAT’S
IN THE NEWS?
About
Acetanilide:
- Chemical Nature: Odourless, colourless, or
white crystalline powder; also known as N-phenylacetamide or acetanil.
- Chemical Relation: Related to acetic acid and
produced by reacting aniline with acetic anhydride.
- Medical History:
- First used in 1886 as an
alternative to aspirin under the name Antifebrin.
- Recognized for reducing
pain and fever.
- Usage discontinued due to
severe side effects: cyanosis, methemoglobinemia, and liver and kidney
damage.
- Replaced by paracetamol in
the mid-20th century as a safer alternative.
Modern-Day
Applications:
- Chemical Uses: Slows hydrogen peroxide
decomposition.
- Industrial Uses: Prevents decay in cellulose
derivative coatings and aids in producing rubber accelerators, colours,
and camphor.
Health
Risks:
- Exposure Risks: Inhalation or ingestion can
lead to coughing, difficulty breathing, throat irritation, and
gastrointestinal issues.
- Chronic Effects: Long-term exposure can
cause chronic respiratory challenges.
Source : https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/five-hospitalised-after-inhaling-some-chemical-compound-in-andhra-pradeshs-vizag/article68588584.ece