Paracetamol – Synthesis and usesDiscovered in 1877 by Harmon Northrop Morse at John Hopkins University, paracetamol was one of several aniline derivatives with analgesic and antipyretic properties ( Brody 23). It was first synthesized by the reduction of p-nitrophenol with tin in glacial acetic acid; however, it was not used as a medicine until ten years later (Bertolini 264). Initially, phenacetin, a closely related compound that exhibited similar physiological effects, became the popular over-the-counter medication for headaches (Bertolini 251). However, later research by Brodie and Axelrod in 1949 revealed that phenacetin was actually metabolized to paracetamol in the body (Brodie and Axelrod 60). Subsequently, paracetamol quickly replaced phenacetin and remains one of the most common over-the-counter medications to reduce fever and relieve pain. Present in pharmacies around the world, paracetamol is commonly known by its American brand Tylenol. Paracetamol is chemically called N-acetyl – p – aminophenol. The chemical structure is a six-membered aromatic ring with a hydroxyl substituent placed para to the N-acetyl substituent. As the use of acetaminophen increased, scientists and researchers looked into the most effective methods of synthesizing the compound. In 1997, the demand for paracetamol in the United States was estimated at between 30,000 and 35,000 tonnes per year (IARC 73). Global demand was just as strong in many other countries. There are currently many known synthetic routes that seek to produce the compound in the most efficient way. To determine effectiveness, many factors must be considered. The most important include the cost of reagents,...... middle of paper ......light of the physiological effects of paracetmol. The compound exhibits characteristics that mirror other analgesics and antipyretics, but also exhibits unique properties that may be advantageous in certain treatment plans. Its anti-inflammatory activity is not as strong as other similar drugs called NSAIDs; entirely called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The main mechanism proposed for paracetamol involves the highly selective inhibition of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase; abbreviated COX. There are two isoenzymes of cyclooxygenase, of similar molecular weight and structure, but each with different functions. They are labeled COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 is present in most tissues and works specifically on maintaining the stomach lining. It also plays other vital roles in the body, such as platelet and kidney function..