Sodium phenylacetate

Sodium phenylacetate is a chemical compound used primarily in the treatment of urea cycle disorders due to its ability to bind ammonia in the bloodstream. It is often used in combination with sodium benzoate.

Chemistry[edit | edit source]

Sodium phenylacetate is a salt of phenylacetic acid, a carboxylic acid with the chemical formula C8H7NaO2. It is a white, crystalline solid that is soluble in water and ethanol.

Medical Use[edit | edit source]

In medicine, sodium phenylacetate is used as a treatment for urea cycle disorders, a group of rare genetic disorders that result in a deficiency of one of the six enzymes in the urea cycle. These disorders can lead to an accumulation of ammonia in the bloodstream, which can cause serious health problems, including brain damage, coma, and death.

Sodium phenylacetate works by binding to ammonia in the bloodstream, forming phenylacetylglutamine, which is then excreted in the urine. This helps to reduce the levels of ammonia in the blood.

The drug is often used in combination with sodium benzoate, another drug that also helps to reduce ammonia levels. This combination is known as Ammonul.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Like all medications, sodium phenylacetate can cause side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, headache, and fatigue. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as seizures, irregular heartbeat, and severe allergic reactions.