(August 27, 2009, New Orleans, La.) - Scientists at the University of New Orleans have developed a process for producing a new and potentially safer form of acetaminophen, the pain reliever which has recently caused concern because of its potentially toxic effects on the liver.

The scientists' study, published recently in the American Chemical Society's bi-monthly journal Organic Process Research & Development, could speed development of a next-generation pain reliever.

The researchers, led by Mark Trudell, UNO research professor of chemistry, describe a simple, efficient method for producing the new pain reliever using few materials and a short series of chemical reactions. In the lab, the scientists used the method to produce multigram quantities of the substance with 99 percent purity.

In June, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory panel recommended banning certain prescription pain relievers containing acetaminophen because of the drug's potential for causing liver damage when used in high doses.

In the study, Trudell and colleagues note that scientists recently discovered a new form of acetaminophen with similar potency to the original drug with a lower risk of liver toxicity. Until now, scientists have had difficulty producing the substance in quantities large enough for industrial production. The new process can be performed on a much larger production scale if needed, Trudell said.

UNO chemistry graduate students Lei Miao and Liang Xu worked with Trudell on the research.

The University of New Orleans (UNO), the urban research University of the State of Louisiana, provides essential support for the educational, economic, cultural and social well-being of the culturally rich and diverse New Orleans metropolitan area. It opened its doors in 1958 as part of the Louisiana State University System "to bring public-supported higher education to Louisiana's largest urban community." Today, UNO offers 43 undergraduate degree programs, 37 masters, and 11 doctoral programs. The 340-acre main campus sits on the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain, offering easy access to all parts of the metro area. For more information, visit www.uno.edu.