What is phenacetin used to treat?

Phenacetin was the first NSAID and fever reducer to go on the market. It acts as an analgesic at the spinal cord as well as a negative inotrope at the heart. It can be used to treat subacute rheumatoid arthritis, intercostal neuralgia, and ataxias.

What are the effects of phenacetin?

Phenacetin use has been associated with a higher likelihood of reported adverse effects in drug consumers, including cardiac arrythmias and hallucinations. Effects in the case of an overdose related to phenacetin consumption may include confusion, ataxia, lethargy, headache or methemoglobinemia.

Is phenacetin a painkiller?

Phenacetin, a painkiller, was the world’s first synthetic pharmaceutical drug. It was one of the first painkillers that was not derived from opium while at the same time being absent of anti-inflammatory qualities. Phenacetin was developed in 1878 by an American chemist, Harmon Northrop Morse.

Is phenacetin toxic?

* Phenacetin is a CARCINOGEN–HANDLE WITH EXTREME CAUTION. * High levels can interfere with the ability of the blood to carry Oxygen causing headache, fatigue, dizziness, and a blue color to the skin and lips (methemoglobinemia). Higher levels can cause trouble breathing, collapse and even death.

Is phenacetin a paracetamol?

Paracetamol is a metabolite of phenacetin with similar analgesic and antipyretic effects, but the new formulation has not been found to have phenacetin’s carcinogenicity. Phenacetin has been used as a cutting agent to adulterate cocaine in the UK and Canada, due to the similar physical properties.

Why is phenacetin toxic?

Due to its hazardous side effects, including carcinogenic and kidney-damaging properties, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ordered its withdrawal from drug markets in 1983. Since being withdrawn phenacetin has become a common adulterant of illicit substances.

Is phenacetin illegal in UK?

Phenacetin, also legal to import and sell, is an analgesic that is no longer used in legitimate business because of its carcinogenic properties. 11. The Government regulates the possession, supply, production and import and export of drugs subject to control under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.