There are about four chemicals the names of which have to be spelt carefully while reading. They are Acrylamide, Acetalamide, Acetanilide and Acetazolamide! Each one of these is different from the other.
Acrylamide is used as a thickening agent, and in the dye manufacture. It is naturally found formed in starchy fried foods like potato chips, French fries, and bread. In over-fried items its content rises and can damage male reproductive glands, if consumed a lot. It is also found to be a cancer producing agent.
Acetalamide is a solvent that is used in the synthesis of organic compounds.
Acetanilide is now used as a stabilizer in varnishes and in the syntheses of dyes and camphor. In the past it was used as a fever reducing medicine (antipyretic). Later it was discontinued as it had toxic effects on liver and kidneys.
Acetazolamide is a well known medicine (Diamox). It is used as a diuretic and is also prescribed in diseases, Glaucoma and Epileptic seizures.
So, be aware of these wonder resemblances in chemical names!
