Thimerosal

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Thimerosal is an organomercury compound used as an antiseptic and antifungal agent. It has a chemical formula of C9H9HgNaO2S. Thimerosal is used in vaccines and tattoo inks. Its use in medical products has significantly decreased due to concerns about its mercury content.

History[edit | edit source]

Thimerosal was developed in the 1920s by the pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly and Company. It was introduced as a product to prevent bacterial and fungal contamination in vaccines and other medical products.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Thimerosal is used as a preservative in some vaccines, tattoo inks, eye drops, and contact lens solutions. It is also used in nasal sprays and skin test antigens.

Safety[edit | edit source]

The safety of thimerosal has been a topic of controversy, particularly in relation to its use in vaccines. Some studies have suggested a link between thimerosal and neurological disorders, including autism. However, the majority of scientific research has found no such link.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Thimerosal Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD