Racepinephrine CAS No. 329-65-7

Product Description

Racepinephrine, also known as racemic epinephrine, is a sympathomimetic medication primarily used for its bronchodilator effects. It is a 1:1 mixture of the d- and l-isomers of epinephrine, with the l-isomer being the active form that stimulates α₁, β₁, and β₂ adrenergic receptors, leading to bronchodilation and vasoconstriction. This makes it particularly effective in treating conditions like croup and bronchospasm. Commonly administered via nebulizer, racepinephrine provides rapid relief but has a relatively short duration of action. While it is less potent than pure l-epinephrine, it remains widely used due to its efficacy and availability. However, its use can lead to side effects such as tachycardia, hypertension, and anxiety, especially in susceptible individuals.

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Product Use & Characteristics

Properties of Racepinephrine

• Chemical Formula: C₉H₁₃NO₃

• Molecular Weight: 183.2 g/mol

• IUPAC Name: 4-[1-hydroxy-2-(methylamino)ethyl]benzene-1,2-diol

• Chemical Class: Adrenergic agonist

• Structure: A racemic mixture of two enantiomers of epinephrine (L-epinephrine and D-epinephrine)

Medical Uses

• Croup Treatment: Administered via nebulizer to reduce airway swelling and improve breathing in children with moderate to severe croup.

• Bronchospasm Relief: Sometimes used in asthma or other obstructive airway diseases (though selective beta-agonists like albuterol are typically preferred).

• Topical Hemostatic Agent: Used to control superficial bleeding (e.g., in epistaxis or minor surgical procedures).

• Temporary Relief of Bronchial Asthma Symptoms: Wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

• Laryngeal Edema or Other Airway Obstructions: Occasionally used off-label for acute asthma attacks when nebulized.

Mechanism of Action

• Alpha Receptors: Cause vasoconstriction, reducing airway swelling.

• Beta Receptors: Cause bronchial smooth muscle relaxation, improving airflow.

• Specific Effects:

  • Bronchodilation: β₂ effect

  • Vasoconstriction: α₁ effect, reducing mucosal edema in the upper airway

• Active Isomer: The l-epinephrine isomer is the active form, stimulating α₁, β₁, and β₂ adrenergic receptors.

• Less Active Isomer: The d-epinephrine isomer is less active but may contribute to some effects.

Administration

• Nebulized Form: Typically given as 2.25% racemic epinephrine (diluted in saline).

• Onset: Rapid (within minutes), but effects may last only 1–2 hours (rebound swelling can occur).

• Routes of Administration:

  • Nebulized solution (inhalation via a nebulizer)

  • Topical (less common)

  • Not typically given orally or by injection in standard practice

Side Effects

• Common Side Effects:

  • Tachycardia (fast heart rate)

  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)

  • Palpitations

  • Anxiety

  • Tremors

  • Headache

  • Nausea

• Severe Side Effects:

  • Allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat)

  • Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)

  • Stroke or heart attack (especially with overuse or in individuals with pre-existing conditions)

Comparison with L-Epinephrine (Standard Epinephrine)

• Potency: Racepinephrine has roughly half the potency of pure l-epinephrine (the naturally occurring, active form).

• Effectiveness: Some studies suggest l-epinephrine may be equally effective for croup, but racemic epinephrine remains widely used.

Example Product

• Brand Name: Asthmanefrin (OTC in the U.S.)

• Form: Inhalation solution (2.25% racepinephrine)

Important Considerations

• Usage: Use racepinephrine exactly as directed, as overuse can increase the risk of serious side effects.

• Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or certain mental/mood disorders should consult a healthcare professional before using racepinephrine.

Why us!

Sigma Chemical Group is a major chemical enterprise headquartered in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, with a diversified portfolio of subsidiaries including Qingdao Sigma Chemical Co., Ltd., Henan Sigma Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Nanchang Sigma Chemical Co., Ltd., and Jinan Sigma Chemical Co., Ltd. Established on January 16, 2017, Qingdao Sigma Chemical Co., Ltd. operates as a micro-sized chemical product wholesaler with a registered capital of RMB 100,000. Led by legal representative Yang Yuwen and based at 2-1-2301, Jiahe Xinxing, No. 130 Shandong Road, Shibei District, Qingdao, the company’s operations span chemicals, machinery equipment, and import-export services. Henan Sigma Biotechnology Co., Ltd., located in Dongmafang, Muye District, Xinxiang City, Henan Province, specializes in the sales of pesticides, pharmaceuticals, veterinary drugs, and mixed feed additive series, including products like adenine, florfenicol injection, carbasalate calcium soluble powder, and cefotaxime sodium chloride injection. Guided by a win-win and innovative business philosophy, the company employs a modern management approach and customer-centric service, upholding integrity, diligence, and a commitment to quality, thereby earning customer trust through diverse product offerings and competitive pricing. Nanchang Sigma Chemical Co., Ltd., situated in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, is dedicated to producing high-purity plant extracts, emphasizing eco-friendly, non-toxic chemical raw materials that generate no environmental pollutants. Jinan Sigma Chemical Co., Ltd., located in Jinan, the capital of Shandong Province known as the "City of Springs," focuses on manufacturing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and pharmaceutical intermediates. The company maintains long-term industry-academia-research collaborations with Shandong University and Qilu University of Technology, continuously enhancing R&D investments to drive innovation and growth.