Mequinol, also known as 4-Methoxyphenol or 4-Hydroxyanisole, is a synthetic phenolic compound used in pharmaceutical and dermatological applications. It is a substituted phenol containing both a hydroxyl group and a methoxy group on a benzene ring.
Mequinol is primarily known for its use as a topical depigmenting agent in dermatological preparations. It inhibits tyrosinase activity and reduces melanin production, making it useful in formulations intended to manage localized areas of hyperpigmentation.
Mequinol has the molecular formula C7H8O2 and a molecular weight of approximately 124.14 g/mol. Its CAS Number is 150-76-5.
It is a low-molecular-weight aromatic phenol that occurs as a crystalline solid. Mequinol is also used as a chemical intermediate and stabilizing agent in selected industrial and pharmaceutical applications.
Mequinol acts primarily by inhibiting melanin synthesis in melanocytes. Its depigmenting effect is associated with inhibition of tyrosinase-mediated melanogenesis.
By reducing melanin formation, mequinol can decrease pigmentation in treated areas of skin. Its dermatological activity is dependent on the concentration, formulation and route of topical administration.
Mequinol is primarily used in topical dermatological formulations for pigmentary disorders.
Applications include:
Mequinol may also be combined with other dermatological active ingredients in specific formulations.
Mequinol API can be evaluated using validated analytical procedures for identification, assay, related substances, water content, residue on ignition, residual solvents and elemental impurities, as applicable.
HPLC, infrared spectroscopy and other validated analytical techniques can be used for identity, assay and impurity determination.
Final acceptance criteria should follow the applicable manufacturer's approved drug-substance specification and Certificate of Analysis.
Mequinol should be stored in a tightly closed pharmaceutical-grade container in a cool, dry environment and protected from excessive heat, moisture and direct light.
Specific storage and transportation requirements should follow the manufacturer's approved specification.
Mequinol API may be supplied for qualified pharmaceutical manufacturing, topical formulation development, analytical and research applications, subject to applicable quality and regulatory requirements.
Mequinol API is available for qualified pharmaceutical and dermatological formulation requirements. Customers can request product specifications, Certificate of Analysis, analytical documentation, packaging information and commercial details according to their requirements.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Identification | IR & HPLC compliant |
| Assay (HPLC) | 98.0% – 102.0% |
| Loss on Drying | NMT 1.0% |
| Residue on Ignition | NMT 0.5% |
| Individual Impurity | NMT 1.0% |
| Total Impurities | NMT 2.0% |
| Water Content | NMT 1.0% |
| Melting Point | Approximately 54–57 °C |