Methyl nicotinate
[CAS# 93-60-7]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Carboxylic compounds and derivatives >> Carboxylic esters and their derivatives
• Name: Methyl nicotinate
• Synonyms: Methyl 3-pyridinecarboxylate; Nicotinic acid methyl ester
• Molecular Formula: C₇H₇NO₂
• Molecular Weight: 137.14
• CAS Registry Number: 93-60-7
• EC Number: 202-261-8
• FEMA: 3709
• SMILES: COC(=O)C1=CN=CC=C1

Properties

• Melting point: 38-43 °C
• Boiling point: 209 °C
• Flash point: 95 °C
• Water solubility: NEGLIGIBLE

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H315-H319
• Safety Statements: P264-P264+P265-P280-P302+P352-P305+P351+P338-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Respiratory sensitization	Resp. Sens.	1	H334
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302

Discovery and Applications

Methyl nicotinate is an ester derivative of niacin (vitamin B3) that was first synthesized in the early 20th century. Niacin itself was discovered in the 1930s and is a key vitamin for human health, and its derivatives, including methyl nicotinate, were developed to explore its unique properties and potential applications.

Methyl nicotinate (C7H7NO2) is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a slightly sweet taste. It is soluble in alcohol and ether, but slightly soluble in water. The compound is known for its ability to penetrate the skin and induce vasodilation, and is therefore primarily used in topical preparations.

Methyl nicotinate is commonly used in topical analgesic and anti-inflammatory creams and ointments. It is effective in relieving muscle and joint pain due to its ability to dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow. When applied to the skin, it produces a warming sensation that helps soothe sore muscles and relieve pain from conditions such as arthritis and minor injuries.

In the cosmetic industry, methyl nicotinate is used in formulations that improve the appearance and health of the skin. Its vasodilatory effect can improve skin tone and texture by increasing blood circulation in the area of ​​application. It is often found in anti-aging products, where improved blood flow can promote a younger, more radiant complexion.

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts use products containing methyl nicotinate to enhance muscle recovery and performance. Increased muscle blood flow helps reduce soreness and speeds up the recovery process after intense exercise. Pre-workout formulas include methyl nicotinate to warm up muscles and prepare them for exercise.

In scientific studies, methyl nicotinate is used as a model compound to study the mechanisms of skin penetration and vasodilation. Its well-documented effects on blood flow and skin absorption make it a valuable tool for researchers studying new topical formulations and drug delivery systems.

While methyl nicotinate is generally safe for topical use, it may cause skin irritation in some people, especially in higher concentrations. It is important to use products containing this compound according to the instructions and to perform a patch test before widespread use to avoid adverse reactions.

References

2024. Synthesis of N-(iminyl)pyridinium salts from hydrazones by the Zincke reaction. Russian Chemical Bulletin, 73(5).
DOI: 10.1007/s11172-024-4246-2

2023. Effect of Additive Methyl Nicotinate on Electrochemical Behavior of Nickel-Copper Alloy Electrodeposition in ChCl-EG Deep Eutectic Solvents. Russian Journal of Physical Chemistry A, 97(14).
DOI: 10.1134/s0036024424030270

2022. A quantitative high-throughput screen identifies compounds that lower expression of the SCA2-and ALS-associated gene ATXN2. The Journal of Biological Chemistry, 298(8).
DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102228