Chloral betaine: Difference between revisions

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'''Chloral betaine''' is a [[chemical compound]] that is often used in [[pharmaceutical]] applications. It is a type of [[betaine]], which are organic compounds derived from [[amino acids]]. Chloral betaine is known for its stability and its ability to form [[crystals]].
{{Short description|A sedative and hypnotic drug}}
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'''Chloral betaine''' is a [[sedative]] and [[hypnotic]] drug that is used to induce [[sleep]] and reduce [[anxiety]]. It is a derivative of [[chloral hydrate]], a well-known sedative, and is often used in the treatment of [[insomnia]] and other sleep disorders.


==Chemical Structure==
==Chemical Structure==
Chloral betaine is a [[quaternary ammonium compound]], meaning it has a central [[nitrogen]] atom surrounded by four organic groups. The compound is a [[zwitterion]], which means it carries both a positive and a negative charge. This gives it unique properties, such as the ability to form stable crystals and to act as a [[buffer]] in chemical reactions.
Chloral betaine is a complex formed between [[chloral hydrate]] and [[betaine]]. The chemical structure of chloral betaine allows it to release chloral hydrate slowly in the body, which contributes to its sedative effects. The molecular formula of chloral betaine is C<sub>5</sub>H<sub>11</sub>Cl<sub>3</sub>O<sub>2</sub>N.
 
[[File:Chloral_betaine.svg|thumb|right|Chemical structure of chloral betaine]]
 
==Pharmacology==
Chloral betaine acts as a [[central nervous system]] depressant. It works by enhancing the effects of the inhibitory neurotransmitter [[gamma-aminobutyric acid]] (GABA) in the brain, which leads to sedation and hypnosis. The drug is metabolized in the liver to produce chloral hydrate, which is the active form responsible for its pharmacological effects.
 
==Uses==
Chloral betaine is primarily used for its sedative and hypnotic properties. It is prescribed for:
* [[Insomnia]]: To help patients fall asleep and stay asleep.
* [[Anxiety]]: To reduce anxiety levels, especially before medical procedures.
 
==Side Effects==
Common side effects of chloral betaine include:
* [[Drowsiness]]
* [[Dizziness]]
* [[Headache]]
* [[Nausea]]


==Pharmaceutical Applications==
In some cases, more severe side effects can occur, such as [[respiratory depression]] and [[allergic reactions]].
In the pharmaceutical industry, chloral betaine is often used as a [[stabilizer]] in the formulation of [[drugs]]. It can also be used as a [[solvent]], helping to dissolve other substances. In addition, chloral betaine has been studied for its potential use in [[drug delivery systems]], due to its ability to form stable crystals.


==Safety and Toxicity==
==Precautions==
Like all chemicals, chloral betaine must be handled with care. It is generally considered safe for use in pharmaceuticals, but it can be harmful if ingested in large amounts. It is also a potential [[irritant]] to the skin and eyes.
Patients should use chloral betaine with caution, especially if they have a history of:
* [[Liver disease]]
* [[Kidney disease]]
* [[Alcoholism]]


==See Also==
==Related pages==
* [[Betaine]]
* [[Chloral hydrate]]
* [[Pharmaceutical industry]]
* [[Sedative]]
* [[Chemical compound]]
* [[Hypnotic]]
* [[Quaternary ammonium compound]]
* [[Insomnia]]


[[Category:Chemical compounds]]
[[Category:Sedatives]]
[[Category:Pharmaceutical ingredients]]
[[Category:Hypnotics]]
{{Chem-stub}}
[[Category:Chloral derivatives]]
{{Pharma-stub}}

Latest revision as of 11:00, 15 February 2025

A sedative and hypnotic drug


Chloral betaine
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Chloral betaine is a sedative and hypnotic drug that is used to induce sleep and reduce anxiety. It is a derivative of chloral hydrate, a well-known sedative, and is often used in the treatment of insomnia and other sleep disorders.

Chemical Structure[edit]

Chloral betaine is a complex formed between chloral hydrate and betaine. The chemical structure of chloral betaine allows it to release chloral hydrate slowly in the body, which contributes to its sedative effects. The molecular formula of chloral betaine is C5H11Cl3O2N.

Chemical structure of chloral betaine

Pharmacology[edit]

Chloral betaine acts as a central nervous system depressant. It works by enhancing the effects of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which leads to sedation and hypnosis. The drug is metabolized in the liver to produce chloral hydrate, which is the active form responsible for its pharmacological effects.

Uses[edit]

Chloral betaine is primarily used for its sedative and hypnotic properties. It is prescribed for:

  • Insomnia: To help patients fall asleep and stay asleep.
  • Anxiety: To reduce anxiety levels, especially before medical procedures.

Side Effects[edit]

Common side effects of chloral betaine include:

In some cases, more severe side effects can occur, such as respiratory depression and allergic reactions.

Precautions[edit]

Patients should use chloral betaine with caution, especially if they have a history of:

Related pages[edit]