This synthetic compound holds a special role as a key intermediate in the multi-stage preparation of Montelukast, an active pharmaceutical ingredient prescribed widely as a leukotriene receptor antagonist. Montelukast targets respiratory conditions like asthma and allergic rhinitis. On the manufacturing side, attention zeroes in on the physiochemical features of A-[3-[2-(7-Chloro-2-quinolinyl)ethenyl]phenyl]-2-(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)-, [R-(E)]-benzenepropanol, since consistent quality and predictable behavior during synthesis call for tight characterization standards and careful monitoring of every physical and chemical property involved.
The molecular structure shows a backbone built around a benzenepropanol group and a quinolinyl-ethenyl-phenyl substituent, set in a distinct R-(E) configuration, which has a strong impact on both its reactivity and its suitability as a raw material for pharmaceutical transformation. The compound's molecular formula is C26H24ClNO2, reflecting the presence of chlorine, nitrogen, and multiple aromatic rings, each contributing to its electronic and steric characteristics. Density measurements hover near 1.25 g/cm3 at typical storage conditions. In an industrial context, the color and texture—typically white to off-white crystalline solid, sometimes found in the form of flakes or fine powder—offer an immediate visual verification of batch consistency. Solubility in organic solvents such as dichloromethane supports its use across scalable reactions, but limited water solubility restricts its direct use to solvent-rich environments. Melting points commonly range from 116°C to 122°C, a window that allows for solid-phase handling and easier purification through recrystallization.
Safety stands at the front in any discussion of this raw material. With a chemical that falls under the heading of potentially harmful organics, standard precautions cannot be set aside. The HS Code for this class of aromatic intermediates sits most often at 2933.39, identifying it as a nitrogen heterocyclic compound, recognized in customs and regulatory documentation. Its classification as a solid material simplifies some storage logistics but creates challenges for inhalation exposure and skin contact, so workers routinely use fume hoods and full protective gear throughout synthesis or transfer steps. While published LD50 values remain limited, related intermediates in aromatic pharmaceutical synthesis have shown moderate acute toxicity profiles, underscoring the need for strict ventilation and disposal practices. Exposing the compound to strong acids or oxidizing agents generates hazardous degradation products, including nitrogen oxides and chlorinated aromatics, reinforcing the importance of segregation in storerooms and during waste treatment steps.
The structure itself—characterized by conjugation between the quinoline ring, chloro-substitution, and ethenyl-bridged phenyl units—gives the molecule unique semi-rigidity, which greatly aids in defining the stereochemistry for downstream transformations. Chemists rely on the clear NMR and IR spectra produced by the aromatic signature and hydroxyl groups to ensure that each batch sits within specification for purity, typically above 99% by HPLC analysis. The intermediate’s well-documented reactivity with chiral auxiliaries and coupling agents streamlines the conversion pathway to the final pharmaceutical agent, and the physical stability in storage—resistant to light and moderate humidity—streamlines both handling and logistics in large-scale production.
In commercial supply, buyers of this intermediate demand a full profile of key specifications: particle size distribution, bulk density (usually between 0.45-0.60 g/cm3), melting range, residual solvent concentrations (especially for high-boiling solvents like DMSO or DMF), and heavy metals content. Manufacturers back up each lot with full documentation, including IR, NMR, MS spectra, and HPLC chromatograms. As a solid, it ships in sealed polyethylene-lined fiber drums, each labeled for hazardous goods transport under UN guidelines.
As regulatory authorities such as the FDA and EMA push for cleaner, safer, and more traceable supply chains, the role of precise intermediate tracking and regular specification updates grows. Companies seeking to minimize waste or production downtime invest in improved crystallization methods, inline monitoring, and rapid analytics. Chemical engineers focus on ways to cut emissions during manufacturing, using closed-loop solvent recovery systems and greener synthetic routes. All these steps support public health by ensuring that each tablet of Montelukast on pharmacy shelves starts with a batch of this intermediate that meets strict standards—not just for chemical purity, but for safety and traceability as well.
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