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)
