4methylpyrazole

4-Methylpyrazole is a heterocyclic organic compound with the chemical formula C4H6N2. It is a derivative of pyrazole, a five-membered ring containing two adjacent nitrogen atoms. The "4-methyl" designation indicates that a methyl group (CH3) is attached to the carbon atom at the fourth position of the pyrazole ring.

This compound is a colorless liquid or solid, depending on its purity and ambient temperature, and possesses a characteristic odor. It is soluble in water and many organic solvents. 4-Methylpyrazole is known for its ability to inhibit alcohol dehydrogenase, an enzyme involved in the metabolism of alcohol. This inhibitory property makes it a pharmaceutical agent used in the treatment of alcohol poisoning.

In the medical field, 4-methylpyrazole, often administered intravenously, acts as an antidote by slowing down the conversion of toxic alcohols like methanol and ethylene glycol into their more dangerous metabolites. This allows the body more time to excrete the original toxic alcohol before severe damage occurs. It is an important therapeutic option in emergency medicine for these specific types of intoxications.

Beyond its medical applications, 4-methylpyrazole can be used in research settings as a chemical reagent or as a standard for analytical purposes. Its synthesis typically involves cyclization reactions starting from appropriate precursors. The compound's chemical structure and reactivity make it a subject of interest in organic chemistry research.