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cas number 2682 20 4

Understanding the Significance of CAS Number 2682-20-4

Chemical substances play a crucial role in various industries, from pharmaceuticals to agriculture. To streamline communication and ensure safety, these substances are often identified by their unique Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) registry numbers. One such number is 2682-20-4, which corresponds to the compound known as Thiomersal.

Thiomersal, also known as Thimerosal, is an organic mercury compound with the formula C9H9HgNaO2S. It has been used primarily as a preservative in vaccines and other pharmaceutical products since the 1930s. Unlike many other compounds, Thiomersal has drawn considerable attention not only for its utility but also for the controversies surrounding its safety.

The Role of Thiomersal in Vaccines

Thiomersal is an effective antimicrobial agent that prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi in multi-dose vials of vaccines. Historically, this property has been crucial, as using multi-dose vials helps minimize costs and reduces vaccine waste. Through the preservation of these vaccines, Thiomersal has played an essential role in public health initiatives aimed at controlling and eradicating infectious diseases such as measles, mumps, and rubella.

In practice, Thiomersal has enabled healthcare providers to safely deliver vaccines to millions of people worldwide. Its introduction into vaccines has contributed significantly to the stability and efficacy of immunization programs.

Controversies and Safety Concerns

Despite its professional endorsement, the use of Thiomersal has not been without controversy. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, concerns began to arise among the public regarding the safety of Thiomersal, particularly in relation to childhood vaccines. Critics argued that the mercury content in Thiomersal could pose potential risks to neurodevelopment in infants and young children.

cas number 2682 20 4

Subsequently, numerous studies and reviews were initiated to investigate these claims. The consensus among reputable institutions, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and various health agencies, is that Thiomersal at the levels used in vaccines is safe and does not cause harm. However, as a precautionary measure, many countries, including the United States, have moved toward Thiomersal-free formulations in vaccines recommended for children.

Thiomersal Today

In modern medicine, the usage of Thiomersal has decreased, primarily due to public perception and the preference for alternative preservatives. Today, many vaccines are manufactured without Thiomersal, particularly those aimed at infants and young children. Nonetheless, it remains essential to ensure appropriate preservation methods in multi-dose vials to maintain vaccine potency and prevent contamination.

Research on Thiomersal continues, focusing on its function within pharmaceutical formulations and potential applications beyond vaccines. Furthermore, alternative preservatives are constantly being evaluated for their effectiveness and safety to ensure the best outcomes in public health.

Conclusion

CAS Number 2682-20-4 is more than just a scientific identifier; it represents a compound deeply intertwined with the history, progress, and debates surrounding vaccine safety and public health. As global vaccination programs evolve and new formulations are developed, understanding substances like Thiomersal remains essential. The balance between ensuring vaccine efficacy and addressing public health concerns will continue to guide research and discussions in the years to come.

In summary, the compound associated with CAS Number 2682-20-4 exemplifies the complexities of modern medicine, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practice and public communication. Continued monitoring, research, and adaptation will ensure that both safety and efficacy are prioritized in public health initiatives worldwide.

2 phosphonobutane 1 2 4 tricarboxylic acid