ChemDraw Add In: How do I search for chemical names in SciFinder

Updated: 22 September,2026
How do I search for chemical names in SciFinder?

Solution:

SciFinder allows you to search for chemical names under the Explore Substances section by selecting the Substance Identifier option. However, searching by chemical names can be complex due to variations in nomenclature and indexing rules.

Steps to Search for Chemical Names:

1. Go to Explore Substances → Select Substance Identifier.
2. Enter the chemical name, trade name, or abbreviation in the search field.
3. SciFinder will first look for an exact match to the name you entered. If found, it will display only that compound.

Limitations of Name Searches:

• SciFinder uses CAS nomenclature rules, which have evolved over time.
• Searching systematic names is less reliable due to variations in name strings.
• Exact matches will not retrieve related compounds (e.g., searching Gallopamil will not retrieve Gallopamil hydrochloride).

Tips for Effective Searching:

• Use Common Names or Abbreviations: Searching for well-known names (e.g., acetic acid, Taxol) is more reliable.
• Break Long Names into Segments: For systematic names, divide them into identifiable functional group segments separated by spaces (e.g., 3-buten-1-yl 2,3,4,9-tetrahydro 1H-pyrido 1-carboxylic).
• Add Locants to Narrow Results: If you get too many hits, include locants to refine your search.
• Avoid Relying Solely on Name Searches: Due to the complexity of chemical nomenclature, name searches should not be used for comprehensive compound searches.

Note:

• SciFinder does not currently support browsing an alphabetical index of names.