4-dimethylaminophenol

4-Dimethylaminophenol (4-DMAP) is a chemical compound used in the medical field as an antidote for cyanide poisoning. It is a derivative of phenol with the chemical formula C₈H₁₁NO.

Chemical Structure

4-Dimethylaminophenol is a phenol derivative, which means it contains a benzene ring with a hydroxyl group (-OH) and a dimethylamino group (-N(CH₃)₂) attached. The dimethylamino group is located at the 4th position of the benzene ring, hence the name 4-dimethylaminophenol.

Medical Use

In medicine, 4-DMAP is used as an antidote for cyanide poisoning. Cyanide is a potent toxin that inhibits the body's ability to use oxygen. When administered, 4-DMAP acts by converting the cyanide into a less toxic compound, cyanmethemoglobin, which can then be excreted by the body.

Safety and Side Effects

Like all medications, 4-DMAP can cause side effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, headache, and hypertension. In rare cases, it can cause methemoglobinemia, a condition where an abnormal amount of methemoglobin is produced, which can interfere with the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

See Also

• Cyanide poisoning
• Antidote
• Phenol