Problem 72 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

Which of the following are true? (1) aspirin is an analgesic as well as an antipyretic (2) some disinfectants can be used as antiseptics (3) sulphadiazine is a synthetic antibacterial (a) 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 2 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1,2 and 3

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

All statements are true. The correct option is (d) 1, 2 and 3.

Step 1: Analyze Statement (1)

Aspirin is a well-known drug that serves dual purposes. It is both an analgesic, which means it relieves pain, and an antipyretic, meaning it reduces fever. Therefore, statement (1) is true.

Step 2: Analyze Statement (2)

Disinfectants are used to kill or inhibit bacteria on non-living surfaces, while antiseptics perform a similar function but are safe for use on living tissue. Some substances, like alcohol, can serve as both disinfectants and antiseptics, depending on their concentration. Therefore, statement (2) is true.

Step 3: Analyze Statement (3)

Sulphadiazine is classified as a sulfonamide antibiotic and is synthetically produced to inhibit bacterial growth. Therefore, statement (3) is true.

Step 4: Determine the Correct Option

Since all statements (1), (2), and (3) are true, the correct answer is option (d) 1, 2 and 3.

Key Concepts

Understanding Analgesics

An analgesic is a type of medication primarily utilized to relieve pain. These drugs are often called painkillers. There are different classes of analgesics, including:

• Non-opioid Analgesics: Such as aspirin and ibuprofen. These are suitable for mild to moderate pain.
• Opioid Analgesics: Like morphine and codeine, used for more severe pain.

Aspirin, as an analgesic, works by inhibiting certain chemicals in the body that are responsible for pain and inflammation. This makes it a popular choice for relieving headaches, muscle aches, and other conditions that cause discomfort. Additionally, due to its anti-inflammatory properties, aspirin is sometimes used to treat arthritis.

What Does Antipyretic Mean?

The term antipyretic refers to a substance capable of reducing fever. This makes antipyretics crucial in the treatment of conditions where fever is a symptom. Like analgesics, antipyretics can include medications such as:

• Aspirin: Again taking its place as a dual-function drug, treating both pain and fever.
• Acetaminophen: Known widely for reducing fever and mild pain.

Aspirin's mechanism as an antipyretic involves the inhibition of prostaglandins in the brain, which leads to a reduction in body temperature. This is why aspirin is often recommended in cases of mild to moderate fever, making it a versatile medication.

Disinfectants vs Antiseptics

Disinfectants and antiseptics are both agents used to control microbial presence, but they are used in different contexts:

• Disinfectants: These are used on non-living surfaces, such as cleaning hospital floors or sterilizing equipment, to kill bacteria and viruses.
• Antiseptics: Designed for safe use on living tissues, these are low-concentration solutions, like those used in wound cleaning.

Some substances, like alcohol, can act as both if used in proper concentrations. For example, a 70% alcohol solution can be an effective antiseptic when applied to skin, while concentrations above 90% are typically reserved for disinfectant purposes. This dual-functionality makes certain substances very versatile in both medical and household settings.

Exploring Synthetic Antibacterial Agents

The term synthetic antibacterial refers to anti-infection agents that are chemically designed and manufactured, as opposed to being naturally derived. These agents play a crucial role in combating bacterial infections when natural options are insufficient. They include:

• Synthetic Penicillins: Such as amoxicillin, modified using chemical synthesis to broaden their spectrum.
• Sulphonamides: A classic example, like sulphadiazine, are specifically engineered antibacterials that act by inhibiting bacterial growth.

Synthetic antibacterials have paved the way for advancements in treating infections, allowing for targeted approaches to bacterial control and integration into combination therapies for enhanced effect.

Overview of Sulphonamide Antibiotics

Sulphonamide antibiotics, commonly known as sulfa drugs, are a group of synthetic antibiotics that have been instrumental in medical treatment. They work by interfering with the production of folic acid in bacteria, which is necessary for bacterial growth. Some key points about sulphonamides include:

• Wide Application: Used to treat a plethora of bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections and bronchitis.
• Resistance: Over time, bacteria can develop resistance, which is why they are often used in combination with other antibiotics.

Sulphadiazine, a member of this group, exemplifies the effectiveness of sulphonamides in treating infections. Their role in modern medicine is crucial, despite the advent of newer antibiotics.