Brometone

A sedative and hypnotic drug

Brometone is a chemical compound that has been used historically as a sedative and hypnotic agent. It is a brominated derivative of butyric acid, specifically 2-bromo-2-ethylbutyric acid. Brometone was once used in medicine for its calming effects, but its use has declined due to the development of safer and more effective medications.

Chemical Properties

Brometone is a brominated carboxylic acid with the molecular formula C₆H₁₁BrO₂. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature. The presence of the bromine atom in its structure contributes to its sedative properties, as bromine is known to have central nervous system depressant effects.

Pharmacology

Brometone acts as a central nervous system depressant. It was used to induce sedation and hypnosis in patients, particularly in the early 20th century. The exact mechanism of action is not well understood, but it is believed to involve the modulation of GABAergic neurotransmission, similar to other brominated compounds.

Historical Use

Brometone was introduced into medical practice in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was used to treat conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, and other disorders requiring sedation. However, due to its potential for toxicity and the development of tolerance, its use was largely discontinued by the mid-20th century.

Safety and Toxicity

The use of brometone is associated with several adverse effects, including bromism, a condition caused by chronic bromide intoxication. Symptoms of bromism include headache, fatigue, ataxia, and skin rashes. Due to these safety concerns, brometone is no longer commonly used in clinical practice.

Current Status

Brometone is not widely used today, having been replaced by safer and more effective sedative-hypnotic drugs such as benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepine sleep aids. It remains of historical interest in the study of early sedative medications.

Also see

• Bromide (chemistry)
• Sedative
• Hypnotic
• Bromism
• GABA