Cyanamide is an
organic compound with the
formula CN2H2. This white solid is widely used in agriculture and the production of pharmaceuticals and other organic compounds. It is also used as an alcohol deterrent drug in Canada, Europe and Japan. The molecule features a
nitrile group attached to an
amino group. Although it is similar in structure to
hydrogen cyanide, it is not as toxic. Derivatives of this compound are also referred to as cyanamides, the most common being
calcium cyanamide (CaCN
2).