What Is Salicylamide?
Salicylamide is a white crystalline or crystalline powder aromatic compound. Its IUPAC name is 2-hydroxybenzamide, and it is also known as o-hydroxybenzamide.
Its chemical formula is C7H7NO2 and its molecular weight is 137.14. The CAS registration number is 65-45-2.
Salicylamide is obtained by amidation of methyl salicylate with ammonia in a nucleophilic substitution reaction.
Uses of Salicylamide
Salicylamide is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that reduces fever, swelling, and pain. Its antipyretic and analgesic effects are similar to those of aspirin.
It has been used in many over the counter drugs as an orally administered nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, but is rarely used today.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs inhibit the production of substances (prostaglandins) produced by the body that cause pain, fever, and inflammation. The inhibitory effect of prostaglandin production can relieve pain and reduce inflammation, but it cannot cure the cause of the pain, fever, or swelling itself.
Properties of Salicylamide
Salicylamide is a solid at room temperature with a melting point of 140-144°C and a boiling point of 270°C. It is very soluble in N,N-dimethylformamide, soluble in ethanol, propylene glycol and sodium hydroxide solution, and slightly soluble in diethyl ether and dimethyl sulfoxide. It is not very soluble in water or chloroform.
It has a pH of 5, which indicates the degree of acidity or alkalinity, and an acid dissociation constant (pKa) of 8.37. The acid dissociation constant is a quantitative indicator of the strength of an acid; the smaller the pKa, the stronger the acid.
Other Information on Salicylamide
1. Side Effects
The following side effects have been reported with salicylamide:
- Abnormal platelet function
- May aggravate asthma
- May aggravate gastric ulcers and other peptic ulcers
- May affect kidney and liver function
- Stomach pain, abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Rash
- Urticaria
Avoid use in children with influenza, aspirin asthmatics, and patients with peptic ulcer.
2. Handling and Storage Precautions
Handling precautions
Avoid contact with strong oxidizers. Use in a draft chamber with local exhaust ventilation. Wear personal protective equipment when using.
In case of fire
When burning, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, etc. are produced. Use water spray, foam, powder extinguisher, carbon dioxide, extinguishing sand, etc. to extinguish fire.
In case of skin contact
Be careful not to get it on skin. Always wear protective clothing such as a lab coat or work clothes and protective gloves when using the product. Never roll up the sleeves of protective clothing to avoid skin exposure.
In the event of skin contact, wash off with soap and plenty of water. If on clothing, remove all contaminated clothing and isolate. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.
In case of eye contact
Always wear protective glasses or goggles when using the product. In the unlikely event of eye contact, rinse carefully with water for several minutes. If you are wearing contacts and can easily remove them, take them off and rinse thoroughly. Seek immediate medical attention.
Storage
Salicylamide may be altered by light. When storing, place in a light-shielded glass container and keep tightly closed. Store locked up in a well-ventilated, cool place as far as possible, away from high temperatures and direct sunlight.