What is (+/-)-3-Dimethylamino-[o-(m-methoxyphenylethyl)phenoxy)-2-propanol hydrochloride?

(+/-)-3-Dimethylamino-[o-(m-methoxyphenylethyl)phenoxy)-2-propanol hydrochloride, also known by its systematic name 1-(Dimethylamino)-3-[2-[2-(3-methoxyphenyl)ethyl]phenoxy]-2-propanol hydrochloride, stands out as an important raw material in the development and manufacturing of pharmaceutical agents and specialty chemicals. Its complex backbone blends phenyl groups linked by flexible chains, reflected in both its reactivity and solubility. The core of this molecule features a dimethylamino group which, based on structural chemistry, increases its ability to participate in a variety of organic transformations, including salt formation with hydrochloric acid.

Physical Structure and Chemical Properties

With a molecular formula of C20H27NO3·HCl and a molecular weight near 365.91 g/mol, this compound demonstrates a balanced blend of hydrophobic aromatics and hydrophilic substituents. It typically appears as a white to off-white crystalline solid, with flakes or fine powder forms dominating commercial batches; lab samples can sometimes turn up as granules or pearls, dictated by synthesis and drying conditions. Depending on manufacturing technique, density hovers around 1.15–1.22 g/cm³. Thermal data from material safety sheets flag stability under normal temperatures and highlight sensitivity to moisture.

Specifications and Handling Considerations

Industry specifications ask for purity levels above 98%. Analysis methods, such as HPLC and NMR, confirm the absence of major impurities, especially related phenols or amines. Moisture content must stay below 0.5% to avoid hydrolysis. In solid form, this hydrochloride exhibits strong stability under moderate storage but readily dissolves in polar solvents like water, ethanol, and DMSO. Solutions should be freshly prepared and kept in airtight containers. Material comes labeled with HS Code 2922199090 in international trade, aligning it with organic nitrogen compounds that share similar hazard profiles.

Applications and Safety Profile

Labs and manufacturers use this substance mainly for its role as an advanced intermediate. It finds pathways leading to beta blockers and related agents with CNS activity; the methoxy and dimethylamino motifs drive a lot of this medicinal chemistry interest. Input from pharmaceutical developers shows its molecular flexibility suits the construction of analogues with different stereochemical properties. Finished goods tend to carry through tight quality demands established upstream. Handling requires eye protection and gloves, as dust may irritate mucous membranes. In research settings, it’s crucial to work under fume hoods and avoid ingestion or inhalation. Accidental contact brings risks of mild toxicity, including headaches, irritation, or sleepiness, especially in high concentrations or extended exposure.

Hazardous Nature and Environmental Impact

Hydrochloride salts such as this one warrant attention regarding chemical safety. Spills present slip risks, but the main dangers follow improper disposal. Reactivity with oxidants and strong bases can liberate toxic gases or degrade the compound. Small amounts require cleanup with inert materials; disposal in accordance with local hazardous waste rules protects groundwater and soil quality. Material color and dustiness can mask contamination, so good labeling and tracking stop accidental exposure or mishandling. Based on occupational exposure limits, extended skin contact and inhalation above trace levels can cause inflammation, so staff training makes a difference. MSDS documents recommend avoidance of water runoff during industrial cleanup because the amine and aromatic structures do not break down rapidly.

Raw Materials and Sourcing

Synthesizing (+/-)-3-Dimethylamino-[o-(m-methoxyphenylethyl)phenoxy)-2-propanol hydrochloride starts with substituted phenols and protected amines; the methoxyphenyl and dimethylamino nodes create both logistical and chemical bottlenecks. Reliable supply chains begin with quality assurance at the early stage, where raw aromatics must be free from halogenated impurities or residual solvents. Manufacturing partners prefer batches with tight particle size distribution and low free base content, as both influence the ease of downstream mixing, dissolution, and dosage. Long-term supply contracts stabilize pricing, but sudden regulatory shifts or new environmental rules can dramatically change availability, making alternative sourcing a key part of risk management in pharmaceutical and fine chemical industries.

Solutions and Potential Improvements

Experience from laboratory and pilot-scaled production shows that investment in closed-system handling, improved airflow, and waste neutralization reduce both worker risk and environmental impact. Where new regulatory thresholds tighten, manufacturers upgrade exhaust systems and automate much of the weighing and transfer. This limits operator exposure, improving both safety records and batch yields. Continued work in green chemistry, including the use of recyclable solvents and less corrosive acids during final salt formation, offers a pathway to safer, more sustainable production. Partnerships with regional waste processors enable safe destruction or recovery of waste, ensuring the compound's lifecycle remains as short and well-controlled as possible. Open communication between suppliers, regulators, and end-users speeds adoption of best practices, reinforcing safety and product quality while keeping research and manufacturing nimble against market and regulatory swings.