Meclofenoxate hydrochloride
[CAS# 3685-84-5]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Nervous system medication >> Central stimulant
• Name: Meclofenoxate hydrochloride
• Synonyms: Centrophenoxine hydrochloride; 4-Chlorophenoxy-acetic acid 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl ester hydrochloride
• Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₁₆ClNO₃^.HCl;C₁₂H₁₇Cl₂NO₃
• Molecular Weight: 294.18
• CAS Registry Number: 3685-84-5
• EC Number: 222-975-3
• SMILES: CN(C)CCOC(=O)COC1=CC=C(C=C1)Cl.Cl

Properties

• Melting point: 133-135 �ºC (Expl.)
• Solubility: DMSO 79 mg/mL, Water 15 mg/mL , Ethanol 17 mg/mL (Expl.)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Hazard Statements: H302-H315-H319-H335
• Precautionary Statements: P261-P264-P264+P265-P270-P271-P280-P301+P317-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P319-P321-P330-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

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

Discovory and Applicatios

Meclofenoxate hydrochloride is a nootropic compound that has been studied for its cognitive-enhancing properties and potential therapeutic use in age-related cognitive decline. It is the hydrochloride salt of meclofenoxate, which is also known by the alternative name centrophenoxine. The compound is a combination of two components: dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE), a naturally occurring choline derivative, and parachlorophenoxyacetic acid (pCPA), a synthetic compound related to plant growth regulators. The hydrochloride form enhances the compound’s water solubility and stability, making it suitable for oral administration.

Meclofenoxate was first developed in the 1950s in Eastern Europe and quickly attracted scientific attention for its potential effects on memory and cognitive performance. Early pharmacological investigations indicated that the compound could influence brain metabolism and neurotransmission. It has been used in several countries as a prescription or over-the-counter drug for treating symptoms of dementia, cognitive impairment, and other neurodegenerative conditions.

The mechanism of action of meclofenoxate hydrochloride is believed to involve the modulation of acetylcholine levels in the brain. After oral administration, the compound is hydrolyzed to release DMAE and pCPA. DMAE serves as a precursor to choline and may increase the synthesis of acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory. Enhanced cholinergic activity is associated with improved cognitive function, especially in individuals with cholinergic deficits. The other component, pCPA, may contribute to cellular metabolism and membrane function, although its specific role in the brain is less clearly defined.

In experimental studies and clinical trials, meclofenoxate hydrochloride has been reported to improve memory, attention, and general mental performance in elderly patients and individuals with cognitive decline. Some studies also noted improved brain energy metabolism and increased RNA and protein synthesis in neurons. These effects are consistent with the proposed mechanisms involving enhanced synaptic activity and cellular repair processes. However, findings have varied across studies, and the clinical efficacy in healthy individuals remains inconclusive.

The compound has also been examined for its potential antioxidant and neuroprotective effects. By reducing the accumulation of lipofuscin—a cellular waste pigment that accumulates with age in the brain and other tissues—meclofenoxate may help counteract age-related cellular damage. Lipofuscin reduction has been observed in laboratory animals and may be associated with improved cellular function and lifespan extension, although such effects have not been confirmed in humans.

Meclofenoxate hydrochloride is typically administered orally in tablet or capsule form, with doses varying depending on therapeutic goals. It is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and reaches peak plasma concentrations within a few hours. It is generally well tolerated, although some users may experience mild side effects such as headache, insomnia, gastrointestinal discomfort, or irritability. These effects are often dose-dependent and reversible upon discontinuation.

Because of its cognitive effects and influence on brain biochemistry, meclofenoxate hydrochloride has found a place in the category of nootropic substances, which are compounds purported to enhance mental functions such as memory, creativity, or motivation. Its availability and regulatory status vary by country. In some regions, it is marketed as a dietary supplement, while in others it is a controlled prescription medication or not approved for human use.

In conclusion, meclofenoxate hydrochloride is a cholinergic nootropic compound with a long history of use in managing cognitive impairment and age-related neurological decline. Its pharmacological activity is primarily attributed to the DMAE component, which supports acetylcholine synthesis. While clinical studies suggest benefits in elderly or cognitively impaired individuals, further research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety across broader populations.

References

2023. Meclofenoxate Inhibits Aggregation of Alpha-synuclein in vitro. Protein and peptide letters, 30(5).
DOI: 10.2174/0929866530666230307113055

2022. The Effect of Meclofenoxate on the Transcriptome of Aging Brain of Nothobranchius guentheri Annual Killifish. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(5).
DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052491

2012. Construction and performance characteristics of new ion selective electrodes based on carbon nanotubes for determination of meclofenoxate hydrochloride. Analytica Chimica Acta, 729.
DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2011.10.069