Salicin
Medicinal Chemistry
Molecular Weight
286.28
Molecular Formula
C13H18O7
IUPAC Name
2-(hydroxymethyl)phenyl beta-D-glucopyranoside
Pharmacognosy
Biological Source
Salix alba (White Willow)
Active Constituents
Salicin
Pharmacology & Synthesis
Mechanism of Action
Prodrug; metabolized to salicylic acid, which non-selectively inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes.
Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
A: Gradual oral absorption.
D: Widely distributed.
M: Cleaved by gut flora to saligenin, then oxidized in liver to salicylic acid.
E: Renal.
Pharmacodynamics
Analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory actions (milder on stomach than aspirin).
Synthesis Pathway
Biosynthesized from phenylalanine via cinnamic acid.
Safety, Warnings & Interactions
Adverse Effects
GI irritation (less than aspirin), tinnitus, allergic reactions.
Contraindications
Aspirin allergy, asthma, bleeding disorders, children (Reye's syndrome risk).
Drug Interactions
Anticoagulants, NSAIDs.
Pharmaceutics & Compendia
Dosage Forms
Extracts, Capsules
Official Compendia
BP