Phosphonoformic acid

Phosphonoformic Acid (also known as PFA or Foscarnet) is a chemical compound with the formula HO2CPO3H2. It is a colorless, water-soluble solid that is used in medicine as an antiviral drug.

Chemistry

Phosphonoformic Acid is a phosphonic acid, a type of phosphorus-containing organic compound. It is a tautomeric compound, meaning it can exist in two or more structural forms that are in rapid equilibrium. The compound is a strong acid due to the presence of three acidic protons.

Synthesis

Phosphonoformic Acid can be synthesized by the reaction of phosphorous acid with formaldehyde in the presence of a base. The reaction proceeds via a Michaelis-Arbuzov reaction, a type of organic reaction where a trialkyl phosphite is reacted with an alkyl halide to form a phosphonate.

Medical Use

In medicine, Phosphonoformic Acid is used as an antiviral drug under the trade name Foscarnet. It is used to treat viral infections caused by human cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex virus. Foscarnet works by inhibiting the viral DNA polymerase, an enzyme that is necessary for the virus to replicate.

Safety

Phosphonoformic Acid is a strong acid and can cause burns if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes. It should be handled with care, using appropriate personal protective equipment.

See Also

• Phosphonic acid
• Antiviral drug
• Human cytomegalovirus
• Herpes simplex virus

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