nitromersol

Nitromersol (aka metaphen) is a mercury-containing organic compound that is primarily used as a disinfectant and for superficial skin infections. Nitromersol is a confirmed animal carcinogen. It can emit toxic fumes of NOx and mercury when destroyed by heat. 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. Nitromersol can cause hypersensitivity reactions, but it is still in use as a preservative for vaccines and antitoxins. Nitromersol does not irritate the skin or mucous membranes and has no impact on rubber or metallic instruments including surgical and dental tools. The signs and symptoms that are produced after an acute overdose of Nitromersol include hypersensitivity reactions, tremors, hypertension, rashes, salivation, photophobia, dysuria, photophobia, and gingivitis. The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Nitromersol are more or less tolerable, but if they become severe they can include necrosis, bloody diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, and be treated symptomatically. — NCATS