4-(Methylsulfonyl)acetophenone is an important pharmaceutical intermediate with a melting point of 126-129°C (lit.) and boiling point of 305.56°C (rough estimate). It has a density of 1.3339 (estimate) and refractive index of 1.5250 (estimate). This compound is slightly soluble in DMSO and methanol (when heated), and should be stored sealed in dry conditions at room temperature. It is primarily used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of Etoricoxib (a COX-2 inhibitor) and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The compound is classified as an irritant (WGK Germany: 3) and should be handled with appropriate safety precautions including gloves and eye protection.
