phenacetin

[fuh-nas-i-tin]

noun Pharmacology.

a white, slightly water-soluble, crystalline solid, C10H13NO2, used in medicine chiefly as an agent for checking or preventing fever or for relieving pain: withdrawn because of unfavorable side effects.

Nearby words

Origin of phenacetin

First recorded in 1885–90; phen(etidine) + acet(yl) + -in²

Also called acetophenetidin.

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for phenacetin

Her London doctor introduced her to a new drug, phenacetin, which worked wonders with the sore side and leg.
The Life of Mrs. Humphry Ward|Janet Penrose Trevelyan
Pain is combated by phenacetin, three grains repeated every three hours till relieved.
The Home Medical Library, Volume II (of VI)|Various
I will with pleasure give you a bromide mixture or phenacetin if your head is bad.
The House of Defence v. 2|E. F. Benson
More effective than antipyrin, acetanilid, phenacetin or similar pain-relieving products.
The Propaganda for Reform in Proprietary Medicines, Vol. 1 of 2|Various

Phenacetin, however, though usually not thought of in this connection, is an excellent remedy for the discomfort.
Psychotherapy|James J. Walsh

British Dictionary definitions for phenacetin

phenacetin

noun

a white crystalline solid formerly used in medicine to relieve pain and fever. Because of its kidney toxicity it has been superseded by paracetamol. Formula: CH 3 CONHC 6 H 4 OC 2 H 5Also called: acetophenetidin

Word Origin for phenacetin

C19: from phenetidine + acetyl + -in

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012