Iodophenacetin, a chemical compound containing iodine and used as an analgesic, is a long and complex word with an equally lengthy spelling. It is pronounced /aɪəʊdəʊˌfɛnəˈsɛtɪn/ ("eye-oh-doh-fen-uh-seh-tin") in IPA phonetic transcription. The word is made up of several root words including "iodo" meaning "containing iodine", "phen" meaning "relating to benzene", and "acetin" meaning a "compound containing an acetate group". The correct spelling of the word is important for scientific communication and accuracy in research.
Iodophenacetin is a chemical compound that belongs to the group of organic compounds known as phenylethylamines. It is an iodinated derivative of phenacetin, which is a popular analgesic and antipyretic medication commonly used to relieve pain and reduce fever. Iodophenacetin is created when iodine is added to phenacetin, resulting in the replacement of one hydrogen atom with an iodine atom.
Due to the addition of iodine, iodophenacetin possesses distinct properties and characteristics compared to phenacetin. It is primarily used as a radiopaque agent, meaning it can absorb X-rays and produce a clear image on radiographic films. This property makes it valuable in medical imaging procedures, particularly when an iodinated compound is required to enhance the visualization of certain tissues or organs.
The chemical formula of iodophenacetin is C14H14INO2, and it has a molecular weight of 353.176 g/mol. It typically appears as a white or off-white crystalline solid at room temperature and is generally soluble in organic solvents.
Iodophenacetin should be handled and used with caution, as it is a controlled substance in many countries due to its potential for misuse and addiction. Long-term or excessive use of iodophenacetin can also have adverse effects on the liver and kidneys, highlighting the importance of proper dosage and medical guidance when using this compound.
A brownish crystalline powder, antiseptic; employed internally in rheumatism in doses of gr. 5-8 (0.3-0.5).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "iodophenacetin" is a compound word that can be broken down into two parts: "iodo-" and "phenacetin".
The prefix "iodo-" indicates the presence of iodine in the compound. Iodine is a chemical element that is often used for its antiseptic properties.
The second part, "phenacetin", is the name of a specific chemical compound. Phenacetin is an analgesic and fever-reducing drug that was widely used in the early 20th century. It was eventually discontinued due to concerns about its potential toxic side effects, particularly its link to kidney damage and a condition called methemoglobinemia.
Therefore, the term "iodophenacetin" refers to a compound that combines the properties of iodine and phenacetin, possibly suggesting a derivative or variant of phenacetin with iodine added to the chemical structure.