Sodium succinate

Sodium succinate is a chemical compound that is a salt form of succinic acid. It is also known as disodium succinate and its systematic name is disodium butanedioate. Sodium succinate is used in several industries including the pharmaceutical industry, food industry, and chemical industry.

Chemical Properties

Sodium succinate is a white, crystalline powder with a molecular formula of C4H4Na2O4. It is highly soluble in water and has a slightly salty taste. The compound is stable under normal temperatures and pressures. It is non-combustible but its dust can form an explosive mixture with air.

Uses

Sodium succinate is used in a variety of applications. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used as a buffering agent in intravenous (IV) medications. It is also used in the food industry as a seasoning agent, acidity regulator, and flavor enhancer. In the chemical industry, sodium succinate is used as a starting material for the synthesis of other chemicals.

Health Effects

Sodium succinate is generally considered safe for consumption. However, excessive intake can lead to hypernatremia, a condition characterized by high levels of sodium in the blood. Symptoms of hypernatremia include thirst, headache, confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, coma and death.

Environmental Impact

Sodium succinate is not considered hazardous to the environment. However, it should not be released into the environment without proper treatment as it can contribute to the eutrophication of water bodies.

See Also

• Succinic acid
• Sodium
• Buffering agent
• Hypernatremia