Question

Which of the following is used as an antipyretic medicine?
(A) Quinine
(B) Paracetamol
(C) Luminal
(D) Morphine

Answer 1

Hint: Antipyretic medicines are used to reduce the body temperature. Thus, I used to get cured from fever.

Complete step by step answer: Quinine is a medicine used to treat malaria.
Paracetamol is chemically called as N-acetyl-p-amino phenol. This medicine is used as an analgesic that is to relieve pains and also to reduce fever. Thus, it is also known as antipyretic medicine.
Luminal is a medicinal drug used to reduce tension or anxiety. It is a tranquilizer that is effectively used in sleeping pills.
Morphine is an analgesic drug and also a nerve stimulant.
Hence, paracetamol is used as an antipyretic medicine among the given options.

So, the correct option is B.

Additional Information: Paracetamol is also known as acetaminophen with the molecular formula ${{\text{C}}_{\text{8}}}{{\text{H}}_{\text{9}}}{\text{N}}{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}}$is less carcinogenic among other antipyretics used. Besides, reducing fever it can also be used for relief of headache or any other minor pains. The brand name for this antipyretic medicine is Tylenol (derived from para-acetylamino phenol). The structure of paracetamol consists of a benzene ring, substituted by a one hydroxyl group and the amide group is substituted para to the hydroxyl group. The amide group is acetamide also known as ethanamide. The presence of two activating groups make the benzene group more reactive towards electrophilic aromatic substitution.

(Paracetamol)

Note: Chemical substances that are used to bring down body temperature are called antipyretics. Paracetamol, Aspirin and Phenacetin are the commonly used antipyretics. Here are the chemical names of the antipyretics that can be useful.
* Paracetamol – 4-acetamidophenol (or) N-acetyl-p-amino phenol
* Aspirin – 2-acetoxybenzoic acid
* Phenacetin – N-(4-Ethoxyphenyl) acetamide