Chlorobutanol
[CAS# 57-15-8]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Digestive system medication >> Antiemetic emetic
• Name: Chlorobutanol
• Synonyms: 1,1,1-Trichloro-2-methyl-2-propanol
• Molecular Formula: C₄H₇Cl₃O
• Molecular Weight: 177.46
• CAS Registry Number: 57-15-8
• EC Number: 200-317-6
• SMILES: CC(C)(C(Cl)(Cl)Cl)O

Properties

• Density: 1.4±0.1 g/cm³ Calc.^*
• Melting point: 98 - 100 ºC (Expl.)
• Boiling point: 167.0 ºC 760 mmHg (Calc.)^*, 167 ºC (Expl.)
• Flash point: 61.8±25.9 ºC (Calc.)^*
• Index of refraction: 1.491 (Calc.)^*

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Hazard Statements: H302-H315
• Precautionary Statements: P264-P270-P280-P301+P317-P302+P352-P321-P330-P332+P317-P362+P364-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335

Discovory and Applicatios

Chlorobutanol is a chemical compound known as 1,1,1-trichloro-2-methyl-2-propanol. It is a chlorinated tertiary alcohol with antimicrobial and anesthetic properties. The compound was first identified and characterized in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as part of the development of chlorinated organic compounds with preservative and antiseptic effects.

Chlorobutanol is primarily used as a preservative and antimicrobial agent in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. Its effectiveness against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses makes it suitable for preserving sterile solutions, ophthalmic preparations, and injectables. Due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, chlorobutanol prevents microbial growth during storage and use, thus prolonging product shelf life and maintaining safety.

In pharmaceutical applications, chlorobutanol is commonly employed in multi-dose vials and eye drops to inhibit microbial contamination. Its low toxicity at the concentrations used and its stability in aqueous solutions have made it a preferred preservative in these products. Chlorobutanol also has local anesthetic effects, which can contribute to reducing discomfort upon administration of certain topical formulations.

Cosmetic formulations sometimes incorporate chlorobutanol as a preservative, particularly in products requiring prolonged shelf life and exposure to potential microbial contamination. It is valued for its effectiveness and compatibility with various ingredients used in creams, lotions, and other personal care products.

Chlorobutanol’s chemical stability is relatively high under standard storage conditions, and it remains effective in a range of pH values typical of pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. However, it can decompose when exposed to strong acids or bases, and therefore formulations containing chlorobutanol require appropriate pH control to maintain efficacy.

Safety evaluations have shown that chlorobutanol is generally safe when used at recommended concentrations. It has low acute toxicity and minimal irritancy in typical applications, although higher doses or prolonged exposure may cause irritation or sensitization. Regulatory authorities have established limits on its use in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products to ensure consumer safety.

In addition to its preservative role, chlorobutanol has been investigated for its anesthetic properties in topical and ophthalmic uses. While it is less commonly used as a primary anesthetic today, its dual function as both preservative and mild anesthetic adds to its utility in certain formulations.

In summary, chlorobutanol is a chlorinated tertiary alcohol discovered in the early development of antimicrobial agents. It serves primarily as a preservative in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and chemical stability. Its safety profile and additional mild anesthetic properties have maintained its relevance in formulations requiring effective microbial control and patient comfort.

References

1958. The Determination of Chlorobutanol in Pharmaceuticals by Amperometric Titration\*\*State University of Iowa, College of Pharmacy, Iowa City. Journal of the American Pharmaceutical Association. American Pharmaceutical Association, 1958-01.
DOI: 10.1002/jps.3030470114

1957. A colorimetric assay for chlorobutanol. Journal of the American Pharmaceutical Association. American Pharmaceutical Association, 1957-10.
URL: [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/13491469](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/13491469)

2004. A randomised controlled study of the efficacy of hypromellose and Lacri-Lube combination versus polyethylene/Cling wrap to prevent corneal epithelial breakdown in the semiconscious intensive care patient. Intensive Care Medicine, 2004-06-01.
DOI: 10.1007/s00134-004-2203-y