4-Aminosalicylic acid, often referred to as PAS, is a compound that has significant relevance to everyday life in the field of medicine. It is commonly used in the treatment of tuberculosis, a serious infectious disease that affects millions of people worldwide. By inhibiting the growth of the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis, 4-Aminosalicylic acid plays a crucial role in combating the spread of this disease and improving patient outcomes. Its impact on public health make it an important tool in the fight against tuberculosis and highlight its relevance to everyday life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
4-Aminosalicylic acid, also known as PAS, has several commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as an intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, dyes, and other organic compounds. PAS is also utilized in the synthesis of various chemicals, such as antioxidants and corrosion inhibitors.
In the pharmaceutical industry, 4-Aminosalicylic acid is primarily known for its use as a medication. It is commonly prescribed for the treatment of tuberculosis, particularly for drug-resistant strains. PAS works by inhibiting the growth of the tuberculosis bacteria, making it an important component in the treatment of this infectious disease.
Aside from its role in treating tuberculosis, 4-Aminosalicylic acid is also used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. PAS helps reduce inflammation in the intestines and alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable medication for individuals suffering from these chronic illnesses.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
4-Aminosalicylic acid is a white to off-white powder with a slight odor. It is known for its bitter taste when consumed.
The molar mass of 4-Aminosalicylic acid is approximately 153.14 g/mol, with a density of 1.549 g/cm³. This molar mass and density are similar to common food items such as table salt and baking soda.
4-Aminosalicylic acid has a melting point of around 285-290°C and a boiling point of approximately 360°C. These values are higher compared to common food items like sugar and butter.
4-Aminosalicylic acid is soluble in water, forming a clear solution. It has a moderate viscosity, similar to that of honey. This solubility and viscosity are different from common food items such as flour and oil.
🏭 Production & Procurement
4-Aminosalicylic acid, also known as PAS, is typically produced through a synthetic process involving the reaction of salicylic acid with ammonia. This reaction results in the conversion of the hydroxyl group on the salicylic acid to an amino group, leading to the formation of 4-Aminosalicylic acid. The process must be carried out under controlled conditions to ensure the purity and yield of the final product.
Once produced, 4-Aminosalicylic acid can be procured through various chemical suppliers or pharmaceutical companies. It is commonly available in both bulk and pre-packaged forms for research and industrial purposes. The compound is typically stored in tightly sealed containers to prevent degradation and contamination during transportation.
Transportation of 4-Aminosalicylic acid is usually done in compliance with strict regulations governing the shipment of hazardous materials. The compound may be transported in solid form or as a solution, depending on the specific requirements of the end user. Proper labeling and handling procedures must be followed to ensure the safe delivery of 4-Aminosalicylic acid to its intended destination.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 4-Aminosalicylic acid include its potential for skin and eye irritation. When handling this compound, it is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and lab coat to prevent skin contact and eye exposure. Additionally, 4-Aminosalicylic acid should be used in a well-ventilated area to minimize inhalation of its fumes.
Hazard statements for 4-Aminosalicylic acid include “Causes skin irritation” and “Causes serious eye irritation.” These statements highlight the importance of taking precautions to minimize skin and eye contact with this compound. It is important to handle 4-Aminosalicylic acid with care and avoid direct contact with skin and eyes.
Precautionary statements for 4-Aminosalicylic acid include “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection” and “IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.” These statements emphasize the need for proper personal protective equipment and prompt action in case of eye exposure. It is crucial to follow these precautions to ensure safe handling of 4-Aminosalicylic acid.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 4-Aminosalicylic acid is its use in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, particularly Crohn’s disease. Studies have shown that 4-Aminosalicylic acid can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to symptom relief in patients with these conditions.
Another area of research interest is the potential use of 4-Aminosalicylic acid as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of tuberculosis. Some studies have suggested that combining this compound with traditional anti-tuberculosis drugs may improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of drug resistance.
Researchers are also exploring the antimicrobial properties of 4-Aminosalicylic acid, particularly in the context of treating antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections. There is evidence to suggest that this compound may be effective against certain types of bacteria, making it a promising candidate for further investigation in the field of antimicrobial therapy.
Lastly, there is ongoing research into the potential anti-cancer properties of 4-Aminosalicylic acid. Some studies have indicated that this compound may have cytotoxic effects on cancer cells, leading to tumor suppression. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these potential anti-cancer effects and determine the compound’s efficacy in various cancer types.
🧪 Related Compounds
One compound similar to 4-Aminosalicylic acid based on its molecular structure is Sulfasalazine. Sulfasalazine is a prodrug that is metabolized in the body to release 5-aminosalicylic acid, which has similar anti-inflammatory effects as 4-Aminosalicylic acid. This compound is often used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Another compound with a similar structure is Mesalazine, also known as 5-Aminosalicylic acid. Mesalazine has a molecular structure very close to that of 4-Aminosalicylic acid, with the only difference being the position of the amino group on the benzene ring. Like 4-Aminosalicylic acid, Mesalazine is commonly used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases.
One more related compound is Balsalazide, which is a prodrug that is metabolized in the colon to release 4-aminobenzoyl-β-alanine (4-ABBA) and Mesalazine. The 4-ABBA portion is structurally similar to 4-Aminosalicylic acid and contributes to the anti-inflammatory effects of this compound. Balsalazide is also used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis and other inflammatory bowel diseases.
