Applications. Acetanilide is used as an inhibitor of hydrogen peroxide decomposition and is used to stabilize cellulose ester varnishes. It has also found uses in the intermediation in rubber accelerator synthesis, dyes and dye intermediate synthesis, and camphor synthesis.

What is the function of acetanilide?

acetanilide, synthetic organic compound introduced in therapy in 1886 as a fever-reducing drug. Its effectiveness in relieving pain was discovered soon thereafter, and it was used as an alternative to aspirin for many years in treating such common complaints as headache, menstrual cramps, and rheumatism.

How does acetanilide produce an analgesic effect?

Acetanilide is converted to a phenolic metabolite in the human body which gives it an analgesic effect, but some is converted to aniline (aminobenzene) which is toxic.