Benzyl Cyanide; Used in the Pharmaceutical Industry for Synthesis of Various Medicines

 

Benzyl Cyanide

Benzyl cyanide, or phenyl-acetonitrile or benzyl nitrile, is an important precursor to numerous compounds in organic chemistry. Benzyl cyanide is a very useful and versatile substance. It is a constituent of many of the most common organic chemicals and is extremely useful in a wide variety of chemical processes. The stability of this substance makes it suitable for use in a vast number of industrial products. It is also used extensively in the pharmaceutical industry and has developed into one of the most extensively used disinfectants in the world.

Benzyl cyanide is a colorless, organic compound used as a solvent and as a starting material in the synthesis of fungicides, antibiotics, fragrances, and other pharmaceuticals. Benzyl cyanide is widely used in pharmaceutical industry for synthesis of various medicines such as diuretics, spasmolytics, hypnotics, antihistamines, antidepressants, analgesics, antimalarial medications, and antiarrhythmics, among others.

Inhalation may result in immediate irritation and inflammation of respiratory tract; however, prolonged exposure can cause severe health consequences, particularly in the elderly. Long-term inhalation may result in respiratory failure, pulmonary edema and cancer of the lungs. Moreover, long-term exposure to benzyl cyanide may result in symptoms such as asthma diarrhea, vomiting, and bronchitis. Inhalation of large amounts can result in severe damage to the central nervous system, kidney, and liver.

Benzyl cyanide is a vital intermediate for a variety of useful, and some dangerous, compounds. It is used in the production of methylphenidate, phenobarbital, and other amphetamines. For this reason, it is on the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) List I of chemicals. It is also used to make ketobemidone, pethidine, and methadone. Benzyl cyanide is also important in fragrances production which is used to produce phenethyl alcohol.

Moreover, benzyl cyanide is used in the production of phenobarbital and other amphetamines as well as in organic synthesis in other pharmaceutical and industrial applications.


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