Understanding the Molecular Formula of Hydroxychloroquine

Hydroxychloroquine, commonly known by its brand name Plaquenil, is a medication used to treat various conditions such as malaria, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. The chemical formula for hydroxychloroquine is C18H26ClN3O, which represents its molecular structure. This article will delve deeper into the molecular formula, its components, and where to find more detailed information.

Molecular Formula and Structure

The molecular formula for hydroxychloroquine is given as C18H26ClN3O. This representation is derived from its IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) name, which is 2-{4-[7-chloroquinolin-4-ylamino]pentyl}ethylaminoethan-1-ol. The abbreviated IUPAC name and the molecular formula for quick reference are both C18H26ClN3O.

Chemical Formula Details

The molecular formula C18H26ClN3O breaks down to show the number of atoms of each element in the molecule:

18 Carbon (C) atoms 26 Hydrogen (H) atoms 1 Chlorine (Cl) atom 3 Nitrogen (N) atoms 1 Oxygen (O) atom

This molecular structure is what gives hydroxychloroquine its unique properties and makes it effective in treating certain diseases.

Where to Find More Information

For detailed information about the molecular formula and properties of hydroxychloroquine, you can refer to the following sources:

The PubChem Project provides a comprehensive database for chemical structures and properties. For a visual representation of the molecular structure, you can also refer to the Wikipedia page on Hydroxychloroquine, which includes illustrations and additional details.

These resources offer in-depth information on the molecular composition, uses, and effects of hydroxychloroquine. You can bookmark these pages or add them to your favorite list for quick access whenever needed.

Conclusion

Hydroxychloroquine's molecular formula, C18H26ClN3O, is a representation of its unique chemical structure that allows it to effectively treat malaria, lupus, and other conditions. Understanding the molecular formula is crucial in comprehending the properties and functionality of this drug. For more detailed information, you can consult the free databases and resources mentioned in this article.