Undecylenic acid: Difference between revisions

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'''Undecylenic acid''' is an [[organic compound]] with the formula C11H20O2. It is an [[unsaturated fatty acid]] that is derived from [[castor oil]]. Undecylenic acid is primarily used in the production of [[nylon]] and in the treatment of [[fungal infections]].
{{Short description|A fatty acid used in antifungal treatments}}
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| Name = Undecylenic acid
| ImageFile = Undecylenic_acid.svg
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| ImageAlt = Skeletal formula of undecylenic acid
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| ImageAlt1 = Pyrolysis of methyl ricinoleate
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==Chemical Structure==
'''Undecylenic acid''' is an [[organic compound]] with the formula C<sub>11</sub>H<sub>20</sub>O<sub>2</sub>. It is an unsaturated [[fatty acid]] that is derived from [[castor oil]].
Undecylenic acid is a [[monounsaturated fatty acid]] that consists of 11 carbon atoms, hence the prefix "undec". The molecule has a double bond between the 10th and 11th carbon atoms, which is what makes it an unsaturated fatty acid.
 
==Chemical properties==
Undecylenic acid is a colorless liquid with a characteristic odor. It is insoluble in water but soluble in most organic solvents. The acid is known for its antifungal properties and is used in the treatment of skin infections such as [[athlete's foot]].


==Production==
==Production==
Undecylenic acid is produced from [[ricinoleic acid]], which is a hydroxy fatty acid that is obtained from [[castor oil]]. The process involves heating the ricinoleic acid to a high temperature and then distilling it to separate the undecylenic acid.
Undecylenic acid is produced by the pyrolysis of [[ricinoleic acid]], which is obtained from castor oil. The process involves heating methyl ricinoleate, a derivative of ricinoleic acid, to produce undecylenic acid and other byproducts.


==Uses==
==Uses==
Undecylenic acid has a variety of uses in different industries. In the [[chemical industry]], it is used as a precursor in the production of [[nylon]]. In the [[pharmaceutical industry]], it is used in the treatment of fungal infections, particularly those caused by the fungus [[Candida]]. It is also used in the production of [[perfumes]] and [[flavorings]] due to its pleasant odor.
Undecylenic acid is primarily used in the pharmaceutical industry as an active ingredient in topical antifungal medications. It is also used in the manufacture of perfumes, cosmetics, and as a chemical intermediate in the production of other compounds.


==Safety==
==Mechanism of action==
Undecylenic acid is generally considered safe for use. However, it can cause skin irritation in some people, particularly if it is used in high concentrations or for extended periods of time. It is recommended to use undecylenic acid under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
The antifungal activity of undecylenic acid is attributed to its ability to disrupt the cell membrane of fungi, leading to cell death. It is effective against a variety of fungal species, making it a versatile treatment option.


==See Also==
==Safety and regulation==
Undecylenic acid is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with prescribed guidelines. However, it can cause skin irritation in some individuals, and care should be taken to avoid excessive exposure.
 
==Related pages==
* [[Fatty acid]]
* [[Antifungal]]
* [[Castor oil]]
* [[Castor oil]]
* [[Ricinoleic acid]]
* [[Fatty acid]]
* [[Nylon]]
* [[Candida]]


==References==
{{Reflist}}
[[Category:Fatty acids]]
[[Category:Antifungals]]
[[Category:Organic compounds]]
[[Category:Organic compounds]]
[[Category:Unsaturated fatty acids]]
[[Category:Pharmaceuticals]]
[[Category:Chemical industry]]
[[Category:Perfumes]]
[[Category:Flavorings]]
{{stub}}

Revision as of 21:00, 9 February 2025

A fatty acid used in antifungal treatments


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Undecylenic acid is an organic compound with the formula C11H20O2. It is an unsaturated fatty acid that is derived from castor oil.

Chemical properties

Undecylenic acid is a colorless liquid with a characteristic odor. It is insoluble in water but soluble in most organic solvents. The acid is known for its antifungal properties and is used in the treatment of skin infections such as athlete's foot.

Production

Undecylenic acid is produced by the pyrolysis of ricinoleic acid, which is obtained from castor oil. The process involves heating methyl ricinoleate, a derivative of ricinoleic acid, to produce undecylenic acid and other byproducts.

Uses

Undecylenic acid is primarily used in the pharmaceutical industry as an active ingredient in topical antifungal medications. It is also used in the manufacture of perfumes, cosmetics, and as a chemical intermediate in the production of other compounds.

Mechanism of action

The antifungal activity of undecylenic acid is attributed to its ability to disrupt the cell membrane of fungi, leading to cell death. It is effective against a variety of fungal species, making it a versatile treatment option.

Safety and regulation

Undecylenic acid is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with prescribed guidelines. However, it can cause skin irritation in some individuals, and care should be taken to avoid excessive exposure.

Related pages

References

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