Nitromersol
 | |
| Names | |
|---|---|
| IUPAC name
5-Methyl-2-nitro-7-oxa-8-mercurabicyclo[4.2.0]octa-1(6),2,4-triene | |
| Other names
Metaphen; 6-Methyl-3-nitrobenzoxamercurete; 4-Nitro-5-hydroxymercuriorthocresol | |
| Identifiers | |
133-58-4  | |
| 3D model (Jmol) | Interactive image |
| ChemSpider | 16739372 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 100.004.648 |
| PubChem | 16682935 |
| UNII | RU6242GP15 |
| |
| |
| Properties | |
| C7H5HgNO3 | |
| Molar mass | 351.71 g·mol−1 |
| Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa). | |
| Infobox references | |
Nitromersol (metaphen) is a mercury-containing organic compound that is primarily used as an antiseptic and disinfectant. It has no odor or taste and is stored as a brown-yellow granules or powder. Nitromersol does not irritate the skin or mucous membranes and has no impact on rubber or metallic instruments, including surgical and dental tools.[1]
This compound is a confirmed animal carcinogen. It can emit toxic fumes of NOx and mercury when destroyed by heat.[2] In 1998, use of nitromersol (and other mercury-containing products) as OTC first-aid antiseptics and products for diaper rash and vaginal contraceptives was disallowed by the FDA.[3] Nitromersol can cause hypersensitivity reactions, but it is still in use as a preservative for vaccines and antitoxins.[4]
References
- ↑ Hospital formulary and compendium of useful information. Berkeley, California: University of California Press. 1941. p. 113. Retrieved 2011-04-08.
- ↑ Lewis, Richard J. (2008). Hazardous chemicals desk reference. Wiley-Interscience. p. 1018. ISBN 0-470-18024-2. Retrieved 2011-04-08.
- ↑ Remington: the science and practice of pharmacy. Medicine Series. 1 (21st ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. 2005. p. 369. ISBN 0-7817-4673-6.
- ↑ Trevor, Anthony J.; Katzung, Bertram G.; Masters, Susan B. (2007). Katzung & Trevor's pharmacology: examination & board review. Lange Basic Science (8th ed.). McGraw-Hill Professional. p. 420. ISBN 0-07-148869-3.