MOLECULE

3-Methylheptane

3-Methylheptane belongs to the class of organic compounds known as branched alkanes. These are acyclic branched hydrocarbons having the general formula CnH2n+2. Thus, 3-methylheptane is considered to be a hydrocarbon lipid molecule. 3-Methylheptane is a very hydrophobic molecule, practically insoluble in water, and relatively neutral. 3-Methylheptane has been detected, but not quantified in, a few different foods, such as herbs and spices, pulses, and tea. This could make 3-methylheptane a potential biomarker for the consumption of these foods. Gastric lavage, emesis, and the administration of activated charcoal should be avoided, as vomiting increases the risk of aspiration. 3-Methylheptane is a potentially toxic compound. Petroleum distillates are also irritating to the skin. Petroleum distillate poisoning may cause nausea, vomiting, cough, pulmonary irritation progressing to pulmonary edema, bloody sputum, and bronchial pneumonia. Volatile hydrocarbons are absorbed mainly through the lungs and may also enter the body after ingestion via aspiration. Treatment is mainly symptomatic and supportive. Petroleum distillates are aspiration hazards and may cause pulmonary damage, central nervous system depression, and cardiac effects such as cardiac arrhythmias. At high amounts, central nervous system depression may also occur, with symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, slow and shallow respiration, unconsciousness, and convulsions. They may also affect the blood, immune system, liver, and kidney.