Fenethylline

Originator

Captagon,Homburg,W. Germany,1961

Definition

ChEBI: Fenetylline is an oxopurine.

Manufacturing Process

1 mol of 7-(β-chloroethyl)-theophylline and 2? mols of α-methyl-β-phenyl ethylamine are heated for 6 hours in an oil bath, if necessary with addition of alcohol or toluene. The reaction mixture is diluted with alcohol and acidified with alcoholic hydrochloric acid. The crystalline mass formed is filtered with suction and extracted by boiling with alcohol. A product having a melting point of 237°C to 239°C is formed. With prolonged extraction by boiling with alcohol, the melting point of the mass falls, preferably due to a change in modification, to 227°C to 229°C. However, analysis shows that both products are the pure condensation product.
Instead of the chloroethyl theophylline, it is also possible to use the corresponding bromine derivative. It was found that in this way the process is facilitated and the yield is improved

brand name

Biocapton;Captagon cpr nsfp.

Therapeutic Function

Central stimulant

World Health Organization (WHO)

Fenetylline, a theophylline derivative of amfetamine, was introduced in 1966 as a central nervous stimulant. It is subject to abuse and is therefore controlled under Schedule II of the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances. Fenetylline is not widely marketed. (Reference: (UNCPS2) United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances (II), , , 1971)