Chloral definitions
| Word backwards | larolhc |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | chlor-al |
| Plural | The plural form of the word "chloral" is chlorals. |
| Total letters | 7 |
| Vogais (2) | o,a |
| Consonants (4) | c,h,l,r |
Chloral is a chemical compound that has been historically used as a sedative and hypnotic drug. It is a colorless, oily liquid with a bitter taste and a pungent odor. Chloral was first synthesized in 1832 by Justus von Liebig, a German chemist.
Uses of Chloral
Chloral was commonly used as a sedative and hypnotic medication in the treatment of insomnia and anxiety disorders. It was also used as an anesthetic before the advent of safer alternatives. In addition to its medical uses, chloral has been employed as a pesticide and as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of other compounds.
Side Effects of Chloral
Chloral can have several side effects when used as a medication. These can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, confusion, and drowsiness. In high doses, chloral can be toxic and may cause respiratory depression, coma, and death. Long-term use of chloral can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation.
Chloral Hydrate
Chloral can also be converted into chloral hydrate, which is a more stable form of the compound. Chloral hydrate has sedative, hypnotic, and anti-anxiety properties and was commonly used as a medication for sleep disorders in the past. However, due to its potential for abuse and dependence, chloral hydrate is no longer widely used in clinical practice.
Chloral and chloral hydrate are central nervous system depressants that act by increasing the activity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. This results in sedative and hypnotic effects, helping to induce sleep and reduce anxiety.
In conclusion, chloral is a chemical compound with a long history of use as a sedative and hypnotic medication. While it may be effective for treating certain conditions, its side effects, potential for toxicity, and risk of dependence make it a less preferred option in modern medicine.
Chloral Examples
- The patient was given chloral hydrate to help induce sleep.
- Chloral is commonly used as a chemical intermediate in the production of dyes.
- The chloral content in the water sample was found to be within acceptable limits.
- Due to its sedative properties, chloral has been used in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal.
- Chloral exposure at high levels can lead to adverse health effects.
- The forensic toxicology report revealed the presence of chloral in the victim's blood.
- Chloral derivatives are often employed as ingredients in certain pharmaceuticals.
- The laboratory technician handled the chloral solution with caution due to its reactivity.
- Chloral is a colorless liquid with a characteristic pungent odor.
- Scientists are studying the potential environmental impact of chloral contamination in groundwater.