The full chemical name of dimercaprol is 2,3-Dimercaptopropan-1-ol. It is also widely known by other names, including its historical designation, British Anti-Lewisite.
Dimercaprol is a chelating agent used as an antidote to poisoning by heavy metals. Its various full names reflect both its chemical structure and its significant role in medical history.
Diverse Full Names of Dimercaprol
Dimercaprol is identified by several names, each offering a different perspective on its chemical composition or its historical application. Understanding these different designations can provide a comprehensive view of this important compound.
Here's a breakdown of its common and systematic names:
| Type of Name | Full Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Systematic Chemical Names | 2,3-Dimercaptopropan-1-ol | A precise IUPAC-like chemical name indicating its structure. |
| 2,3-Dimercaptopropanol | Another common systematic chemical name. | |
| 2,3-Dithiopropanol | Refers to the presence of two thiol (-SH) groups (dithio). | |
| Common/Historical Name | British Anti-Lewisite | Reflects its origin and initial use as an antidote for Lewisite poisoning. |
| British antilewisite | A lowercase variant of the historical name. |
The name "British Anti-Lewisite," often abbreviated as BAL, is particularly significant. It was developed during World War II by British biochemists as an antidote to Lewisite, an arsenic-based chemical warfare agent. This historical context underscores its vital role as a medical countermeasure against toxic substances.
For more in-depth information about dimercaprol, including its clinical data and applications, you can refer to its Wikipedia page.
