| 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 | |
3D model (JSmol) | |
| ChemSpider | |
| ECHA InfoCard | 100.004.648 |
PubChem CID | |
| UNII | |
CompTox Dashboard (EPA) | |
| |
| |
| Properties | |
| C7H5HgNO3 | |
| Molar mass | 351.713 g·mol−1 |
| Hazards | |
| Occupational safety and health (OHS/OSH): | |
Main hazards | moderately toxic |
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa). | |
Nitromersol (metaphen) is a mercury-containing organic compound that is primarily used as an antiseptic and disinfectant. It is a brown-yellow solid that has no odor or taste, 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 vapor when heated. [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. [4]
It is still in use as a preservative for vaccines and antitoxins.[ examples needed ][ citation needed ]