Phenolphthalein

**Semantic type:** Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** An organic compound used as a laboratory reagent and pH indicator. Phenolphthalein exerts laxative effects by stimulating the intestinal mucosa and constricting smooth muscles. However, phenolphthalein is no longer used as a laxative due to the suspected carcinogenicity of this compound.

**Synonyms:** - 3,3-Bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1(3H)-isobenzofuranone - 3,3-Bis(p-hydroxyphenyl)phthalide - PHENOLPHTHALEIN