How Do You Spell PHENACETIN?

Pronunciation: [fˈɛnɐsˌɛtɪn] (IPA)

Phenacetin is a painkiller and fever-reducing drug that was widely used in the early 20th century. The correct spelling of this drug is /fəˈnæsətɪn/ (fuh-NAS-uh-tin) in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced as "fuh," the second syllable as "NAS" with a short "a" sound, and the third syllable as "uh-tin." The spelling of this word can be challenging as it has a mix of affricates, fricatives, and vowels. Today, phenacetin is banned in many countries due to its harmful side effects.

PHENACETIN Meaning and Definition

1. Phenacetin is a synthetic analgesic and antipyretic drug that belongs to the para-aminophenol class of compounds. It was initially developed in the late 19th century as a safer alternative to acetanilide, which had been associated with a range of adverse effects. Phenacetin has been widely used in pharmaceutical formulations as a non-prescription painkiller for the relief of minor aches, headaches, and fevers.

   Chemically, phenacetin is classified as N-phenylacetamide and is usually available as a white crystalline powder or in tablet form. It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, hormones that are responsible for promoting pain and inflammation in the body.

   Though once considered relatively safe, phenacetin’s usage as a pharmaceutical ingredient has dramatically declined due to its association with serious side effects, particularly kidney damage and the increased risk of certain types of cancer, particularly renal pelvis and bladder cancer. Consequently, phenacetin has been banned or severely restricted for use in many countries.

   However, phenacetin continues to be illegally used as an adulterant and cutting agent in illicit drugs such as cocaine, mainly due to its similar physical properties and the consumer desire for its numbing effect. The illicit use of phenacetin is concerning as it can lead to toxicities that have long-lasting and severe impacts on health.

   In summary, phenacetin is a synthetic analgesic once widely used as a pain reliever and antipyretic drug in the past. However, its usage has significantly declined due to its association with severe adverse effects, leading to its restriction or ban in many countries.

Common Misspellings for PHENACETIN

• ohenacetin
• lhenacetin
• -henacetin
• 0henacetin
• pgenacetin
• pbenacetin
• pnenacetin
• pjenacetin
• puenacetin
• pyenacetin
• phwnacetin
• phsnacetin
• phdnacetin
• phrnacetin
• phensacetin
• phenacetinh
• pheancetin
• phenecetin
• Phenacetain
• Phanacetain
• Phenceine

Etymology of PHENACETIN

The word "phenacetin" has a straightforward etymology. It is derived from a combination of the chemical names of its two main components: "phenyl" and "acetin".

- "Phenyl" refers to a chemical group derived from benzene, which consists of a six-membered carbon ring with five carbon atoms and one hydrogen atom.

- "Acetin" is a derivative of acetic acid, consisting of an acetyl group (CH3CO-) bound to an alcohol.

Phenacetin is an analgesic and antipyretic drug that was widely used in the past but later discontinued due to safety concerns.

Plural form of PHENACETIN is PHENACETINS