Ohydroxybenzamide

O-hydroxybenzamide, commonly known as salicylamide, is an aromatic amide in which a hydroxyl group occupies the ortho position to the amide on a benzene ring. It is also referred to as 2-hydroxybenzamide. Its molecular formula is C7H7NO2 and its molecular weight is about 137.14 g/mol. The compound belongs to the class of salicylamides and can engage in intramolecular hydrogen bonding between the phenolic OH and the carbonyl.

Synthesis and properties: Salicylamide is typically prepared by amidation of salicylic acid with ammonia or ammonium carbonate, or by conversion of the corresponding salicyloyl chloride to the amide. It appears as a white crystalline solid and shows limited water solubility while being miscible with many organic solvents. The molecule’s structure allows for hydrogen bonding between the neighboring OH group and the amide carbonyl, influencing its acidity and reactivity.

Uses and safety: Salicylamide has historically been used as an analgesic and antipyretic, and today it retains limited medical use in some formulations and serves as a chemical intermediate in organic synthesis. It exhibits analgesic and antipyretic effects but only limited anti-inflammatory activity. It should be handled with standard safety precautions; high doses may cause gastrointestinal irritation or hypersensitivity in susceptible individuals. As a salicylate derivative, it is typically considered less potent than aspirin in anti-inflammatory applications.