Theobromine
[CAS# 83-67-0]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Urinary system medication >> Diuretic
• Name: Theobromine
• Synonyms: 2,6-Dihydroxy-3,7-dimethyl-purine; 3,7-Dimethyl-xanthine; 3,7-Dihydro-3,7-dimethyl-1H-purine-2,6-dione
• Molecular Formula: C₇H₈N₄O₂
• Molecular Weight: 180.16
• CAS Registry Number: 83-67-0
• EC Number: 201-494-2
• SMILES: CN1C=NC2=C1C(=O)NC(=O)N2C

Properties

• Melting point: 290-295 °C
• Sublimation: 290-295 °C
• Water solubility: slightly soluble, <0.1 g/100 mL at 18 °C

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07;GHS08 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H319-H351
• Safety Statements: P203-P264-P264+P265-P270-P280-P301+P317-P305+P351+P338-P318-P330-P337+P317-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Carcinogenicity	Carc.	2	H351
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373

Discovery and Applications

Theobromine is a xanthine alkaloid that was first isolated from cocoa beans in 1841 by German chemist Friedrich Ferdinand Runge. Its name comes from the scientific genus of the cocoa tree (Theobroma cacao), which means "food of the gods" in Greek. Theobromine is closely related to caffeine and theophylline, and has similar stimulant properties.

Theobromine is a mild stimulant, but not as potent as caffeine. It occurs naturally in cocoa, tea leaves, and kola nuts. Theobromine contributes to the stimulating effects of chocolate and cocoa products, gently increasing alertness and mood.

Theobromine is studied for its potential benefits for cardiovascular health. It has vasodilatory properties, meaning it can help relax and dilate blood vessels, which can improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. These effects make it a hot topic in research for heart health and hypertension management.

Theobromine is used medically to treat respiratory conditions. It acts as a bronchodilator, helping to relax and open the airways, which can be beneficial for conditions such as asthma. Its role in respiratory health is similar to that of theophylline, another xanthine derivative.

Theobromine has a diuretic effect, promoting urine production. This helps reduce fluid retention and may help manage conditions such as edema. Its mild diuretic effect is one of its lesser-known benefits.

Ongoing research is exploring the wider health benefits of theobromine. Studies have investigated theobromine's role in cognitive function, mood improvement, and helping with weight management. While more research is needed, the various biological effects of theobromine make it an interesting compound to look into in health and wellness.

References

2000. Effects of low doses of caffeine on cognitive performance, mood and thirst in low and higher caffeine consumers. Psychopharmacology, 152(2).
DOI: 10.1007/s002130000506

1997. A study on the route of 1-methylurate formation in theophylline metabolism. European Journal of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, 22(4).
DOI: 10.1007/bf03190979

1994. Kinetic interaction between theophylline and a newly developed anti-allergic drug, pemirolast potassium. European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 46(2).
DOI: 10.1007/bf00195916