Furoxan or 1,2,5-oxadiazole 2-oxide is a heterocycle of the isoxazole family and an amine oxide derivative of furazan. It is a nitric oxide donor.[1] As such, furoxan and its derivatives are actively researched as potential new drugs (Ipramidil) and insensitive high density explosives (4,4’-Dinitro-3,3’-diazenofuroxan).

Furoxanes can be formed by dimerization of nitrile oxides.

References

  1. ^ Clara Cena; Massimo Bertinaria; Donatella Boschi; Marta Giorgis; Alberto Gasco (2006). "Use of the furoxan (1,2,5-oxadiazole 2-oxide) system in the design of new NO-donor antioxidant hybrids" (PDF). Arkivoc (HL-1787GR): 301–309.[permanent dead link]