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● The Chemical Name and Structure of Procaine
● Historical Context and Discovery
● Methods of Procaine Synthesis
>> Direct Esterification Method
>> Multi-Step Synthetic Pathway
>> Green Chemistry and Modern Innovations
● Chemical and Physical Properties
● Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
● Clinical and Industrial Applications
>> Veterinary and Research Uses
>> Pharmaceutical and OEM/ODM Manufacturing
● Quality, Safety, and Regulatory Standards
>> Manufacturing Quality Control
● Environmental and Handling Considerations
● The Global Market and OEM Opportunities
● Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
>> 1. What is the full chemical name and formula for procaine?
>> 2. How is procaine manufactured industrially?
>> 3. What are the primary applications of procaine today?
>> 4. Why are OEM/ODM manufacturers in China preferred for sourcing procaine?
>> 5. What safety measures must be considered with procaine use?
Procaine, more commonly recognized as Novocaine, stands as a fundamental compound in anesthetic medicine. Since its development, it has contributed extensively to the evolution of pain management in procedures ranging from dental extractions to minor surgeries. Understanding the chemical identity, method of synthesis, applications, and safety profile of procaine is crucial for industry professionals, healthcare providers, and global OEM/ODM service partners alike.[2][3]
The internationally accepted chemical name for procaine is 2-(diethylamino)ethyl 4-aminobenzoate. Its molecular formula is $$ C_{13}H_{20}N_{2}O_{2} $$, classifying it as a benzoic acid ester. This classification is critical; the ester functional group forms the backbone of its anesthetic mechanism.[1][3][2]
The structure features:
- A para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) moiety
- An ethyl side chain containing a diethylamino group
This arrangement enables procaine to act as a sodium channel blocker and disrupt nerve transmission, which temporarily prevents the sensation of pain.
Procaine was synthesized in 1905 by the German chemist Alfred Einhorn, who aimed to develop a safer alternative to cocaine for local anesthesia. The brand name “Novocaine” derives from “novus” (new) and “cocaine” due to its similar anesthetic role but improved safety profile. Its introduction transformed dental and surgical procedures by making them more tolerable, thus paving the way for modern local anesthetics.[2]
There are several reliable laboratory and industrial methods for synthesizing procaine, each with its merits and applications. The primary approaches are described below.[3][6][1]
This process involves the direct reaction of benzocaine (ethyl 4-aminobenzoate) with 2-diethylaminoethanol, using sodium ethoxide in ethanol as a base and solvent. The reaction produces procaine and ethanol as a byproduct.[3]
A more sophisticated sequence begins with the oxidation of 4-nitrotoluene to 4-nitrobenzoic acid. The acid reacts with thionyl chloride, producing an acyl chloride. When this intermediate is combined with 2-diethylaminoethanol, a nitroester forms, which is subsequently reduced to form procaine. Catalysts such as Raney nickel or palladium are employed in the final hydrogenation step.[1][3]
Recent advancements in green chemistry have led to microwave-assisted synthesis. Here, benzocaine and 2-(diethylamino)ethanol react under solvent-free, microwave conditions. This reduces the synthesis from hours to just minutes, with high yield and minimal environmental impact. Such developments are essential for manufacturers focused on sustainability and operational efficiency.[6]
At the factory scale, every step is monitored using thin layer chromatography (TLC) and spectroscopy (e.g., IR, FTIR) to ensure purity and efficiency. Quality assurance at multiple stages ensures that each batch meets the stringent standards necessary for pharmaceutical and medical device suppliers.[9]
Procaine possesses several defining characteristics:
- IUPAC Name: 2-(diethylamino)ethyl 4-aminobenzoate
- CAS Number: 59-46-1
- Molar Mass: 236.31 g/mol
- Physical Appearance: White crystalline powder
- Melting Point: 61–62°C
- Solubility: Freely soluble in water and alcohol, especially as the hydrochloride salt
- Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions; vulnerable to hydrolysis in aqueous solutions over time.[8][2]
These and other parameters are vital for manufacturers, as they directly impact formulation, storage, and transport.
Procaine's principle mechanism is its blockade of voltage-gated sodium channels on neuron membranes. This inhibition prevents sodium influx necessary for action potential propagation, temporarily halting the perception of pain from the affected area.[4][2]
While procaine's anesthetic action is effective and fast-acting, it tends to have a shorter duration than some modern alternatives (such as lidocaine). Its onset is usually within 2-5 minutes, and effects may last up to an hour depending on the site and dose administered.
Procaine is widely used in dentistry for procedures like tooth extractions, fillings, and root canals due to its quick onset and sufficient duration of local anesthesia. It is also utilized in minor surgical operations and as an additive in intramuscular antibiotic injections to reduce injection pain.[7][10]
Veterinary professionals use procaine for local anesthesia in animals, especially where a moderate duration of numbness is adequate. Additionally, research into procaine's potential epigenetic effects—such as DNA demethylation—informs ongoing studies in cancer biology and regenerative medicine.[7][2]
Factories in China and elsewhere synthesize procaine on a large scale to serve pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, research institutions, and device manufacturers. OEM/ODM business models allow for custom-formulated products, tailored branding, and compliance with diverse regulatory requirements.
Procaine intended for medical applications must be manufactured under strict Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), including process monitoring, impurity testing, and analytical validation to guarantee product safety and consistency.[9]
Suppliers must meet international benchmarks established by authorities like the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA). This includes documentation for traceability, Certificates of Analysis (CoA), and batch-to-batch consistency testing.[8][9]
Though generally safe, procaine and other local anesthetics can sometimes cause allergic reactions, the most common being attributed to its metabolite PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid). Incidents are rare, but symptoms may include rashes, edema, or—for those with specific metabolic disorders—cardiovascular or neurological events if accidental intravenous administration or overdose occurs.[2][7]
Prompt recognition and management of these adverse events, availability of resuscitation equipment, and strict dosing protocols are non-negotiable safety requirements for healthcare providers and manufacturers.
Newer synthesis techniques, such as solvent-free microwave methods, reduce waste and energy consumption compared to classical organic reactions. For large-scale production sites, environmental controls, effluent treatment, and strict protocol adherence minimize ecological footprints.[6]
Personnel must use suitable personal protective equipment (PPE). Procaine should be stored in sealed, labeled containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or incompatible substances.[8]
Procaine remains relevant in both well-established and emerging global markets. Its cost-effectiveness and specific use cases preserve its value, particularly in dental, veterinary, and developing world healthcare sectors where advanced anesthetics may not be readily available. For brands, wholesalers, and manufacturers, choosing a reputable Chinese OEM/ODM partner presents several benefits:
- Advanced synthetic capabilities and quality control
- Efficient large-scale manufacturing
- Flexibility for customized packaging, labeling, and certification
- Competitive pricing and proven international logistics experience
This makes sourcing procaine from expert Chinese factories highly attractive to global clientele, especially those seeking bespoke solutions.
Procaine is a time-tested, effective anesthetic compound, distinguished by its clear chemical identity and versatile synthesis. For global medical brands or pharmaceutical manufacturers, partnering with specialized Chinese OEM/ODM providers ensures you receive top-tier products tailored to your needs, with regulatory peace of mind and full technical support. Connect with us for a custom solution and enhance your brand's healthcare portfolio today.
The chemical name is 2-(diethylamino)ethyl 4-aminobenzoate, and the molecular formula is $$ C_{13}H_{20}N_{2}O_{2} $$.[3][2]
Procaine can be synthesized via direct esterification or a multi-step pathway starting with oxidation, chlorination, esterification, and catalytic hydrogenation. Green chemistry approaches now allow for solvent-free synthesis with microwave reactors.[6][3][8]
It is mainly used as a local anesthetic in dental and minor surgical procedures, veterinary medicine, and as an ingredient in formulations requiring nerve block or temporary pain management.[7][2]
Chinese OEM/ODM suppliers combine advanced R&D, robust manufacturing facilities, and global trade experience, delivering quality-assured, customized products with fast shipping and regulatory compliance.
Proper dosing, allergy screening, adherence to GMP, and monitoring for side effects are essential. Storage protocols ensure stability, and all personnel must use PPE during handling.[9][8]
[1](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/procaine)
[2](https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Procaine)
[3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Procaine)
[4](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0960894X22000634)
[5](https://patents.google.com/patent/CN104341314A/en)
[6](http://bch.ro/pdfRC/NODITI%20G.pdf%201%2014.pdf)
[7](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551556/)
[8](https://www.chemicalbook.com/ChemicalProductProperty_EN_CB9296712.htm)
[9](https://www.nbinno.com/article/active-pharmaceutical-ingredients-apis/the-science-behind-procaine-hydrochloride-properties-synthesis-and-safety)
[10](https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00721)
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