Hexamethylpropyleneamine

Hexamethylpropyleneamine is a tertiary amine that is best known for its role as the precursor to hexamethylpropyleneamine oxime (HMPAO). In practice, the amine itself is encountered mainly within the context of radiopharmaceutical chemistry, where it is converted to the oxime derivative that serves as a ligand for technetium-99m.

In nuclear medicine, technetium-99m–labeled hexamethylpropyleneamine oxime (Tc-99m HMPAO) is a widely used radiopharmaceutical for brain imaging. The Tc-99m HMPAO complex is lipophilic and crosses the blood-brain barrier, allowing assessment of cerebral perfusion in procedures such as single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). The product is commonly marketed under brand names such as Ceretec and is utilized in evaluating conditions including stroke, epilepsy, and dementia.

Chemically, hexamethylpropyleneamine is categorized as an organonitrogen compound and is typically handled under controlled laboratory or hospital conditions when used as a precursor in radiopharmaceutical preparation. It should be distinguished from hexamethylphosphoramide (HMPA), a different compound with separate applications.

See also: hexamethylpropyleneamine oxime (HMPAO), ceretec, technetium-99m radiopharmaceuticals.

Note: Specific synthetic procedures, formulations, and safety data are found in specialized chemical and radiopharmaceutical references.