Acetanilide is a synthetic organic compound with the molecular formula C8H9NO and CAS number 103-84-4. While it was once used as a medication, today it serves primarily as an important intermediate in pharmaceutical synthesis, dye manufacturing, and rubber processing.

What is Acetanilide?

Acetanilide is an organic compound derived from aniline and acetic acid. It appears as colorless to white crystals or powder with a characteristic odor. Originally introduced in medical therapy in 1886 under the commercial name “Antifebrin,” it was one of the earliest synthetic pharmaceutical compounds used to treat fever and pain.

The discovery of acetanilide’s therapeutic properties was somewhat accidental. In late 19th century Germany, it was mistakenly used as an anti-helminthic agent, and researchers discovered that it effectively reduced fever. This serendipitous finding led to its widespread use as an antipyretic (fever reducer) and analgesic (pain reliever) for many years.

Historical Significance: The Precursor to Paracetamol

One of the most fascinating aspects of acetanilide is its role in the discovery of paracetamol (acetaminophen). After several decades of use, researchers at Yale University determined in 1948 that acetanilide is metabolized in the human body to paracetamol, and that it is this metabolite—not acetanilide itself—that is responsible for the analgesic and antipyretic effects.

This discovery led to the development of paracetamol as a safer alternative, which eventually became one of the most widely used medications worldwide. Acetanilide’s historical importance in medicine cannot be overstated, as it paved the way for one of modern medicine’s most essential drugs.

What Are the Benefits and Applications?

Pharmaceutical Intermediate

Today, acetanilide’s primary value lies in its use as a key intermediate in pharmaceutical manufacturing:

• Sulfa Drugs Production: Acetanilide is used to produce 4-acetamidobenzenesulfonyl chloride, a critical intermediate for manufacturing sulfonamide antibiotics (sulfa drugs)
• Penicillin Synthesis: It serves as a precursor in the synthesis of penicillin and other antibiotics
• Other Pharmaceuticals: Used in the production of various other pharmaceutical compounds

Applications industrielles

• Rubber Industry: Used in the synthesis of rubber accelerators
• Dye Manufacturing: Serves as an intermediate in dye and pigment synthesis
• Camphor Production: Used in the synthesis of camphor
• Polymer Additive: Employed as an additive in varnishes, polymers, and hydrogen peroxide stabilization

Safety and Regulatory Information

While acetanilide was historically used as a medication, it is no longer employed as a drug due to safety concerns. The compound has been associated with certain toxic effects:

• Methemoglobinemia: Can cause the formation of methemoglobin, which reduces blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity
• Hemolytic Anemia: Particularly in individuals with genetic deficiency of erythrocytic glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase
• Renal Effects: Excessive doses have been associated with necrosis of renal papillae

Due to these toxicological concerns, acetanilide is now regulated as an industrial chemical rather than a pharmaceutical product. It is primarily sold and used as a chemical intermediate for manufacturing purposes.

Chemical Specifications

Property	Valeur
Numéro CAS	103-84-4
Formule moléculaire	C8H9NO
Poids moléculaire	135.16 g/mol
Apparence	Colorless to white crystals or powder
Point de fusion	114-116°C
Point d'ébullition	304°C
Solubilité	Slightly soluble in water, soluble in alcohol and ether

Frequently Asked Questions

Is acetanilide still used as a medication?

No, acetanilide is no longer used as a medication due to its toxic side effects. However, it remains an important industrial chemical used in pharmaceutical synthesis.

What is the relationship between acetanilide and paracetamol?

Acetanilide is metabolized in the human body to paracetamol (acetaminophen). It was this discovery in 1948 that led to the development of paracetamol as a safer alternative.

What products can be made from acetanilide?

Acetanilide is primarily used to produce 4-acetamidobenzenesulfonyl chloride, which is a key intermediate for sulfonamide antibiotics. It is also used in making dyes, rubber accelerators, and camphor.

Is acetanilide safe to handle?

Acetanilide should be handled with appropriate safety precautions, including gloves and eye protection. It is intended for industrial use by trained personnel. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) information should be consulted before handling.

Why Choose Our Acetanilide?

We provide high-quality acetanilide (CAS 103-84-4) for industrial and research applications. Our product meets rigorous quality standards and is suitable for pharmaceutical intermediate use, dye manufacturing, and rubber processing applications.

• High purity grade available
• Consistent quality with batch-to-batch reliability
• Competitive pricing for bulk orders
• Technical support and documentation available
• Reliable supply chain for consistent availability

Contact us today to request a quote or learn more about our acetanilide products for your specific application needs.

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