Sodium formaldehydesulfoxylate dihydrate

Chemical properties

white crystalline powder

Chemical properties

When freshly prepared, sodium formaldehyde sulfoxylate occurs as white, odorless crystals, which quickly develop a characteristic garlic odor on standing.

The Uses of Sodium formaldehydesulfoxylate dihydrate

Pharmaceutic aid (preservative).

The Uses of Sodium formaldehydesulfoxylate dihydrate

Sodium hydroxymethanesulfinate dihydrate is a versatile reagent that can be used for a wide range of organic transformations such as:

• A SO₂^-2anion source for the preparation of sulfones and sultines.
• Debromination of vicinal dibromoalkanes.
• Reductive dehalogenation of aldehydes and ketones.

Production Methods

Sodium formaldehyde sulfoxylate is manufactured from sodium dithionate and formaldehyde in water.

General Description

Oxidation reation of hydroxymethanesulfinic acid with chlorite has been studied in the pH range 4-8. It is a sulfur-containing reducing agent.

Pharmaceutical Applications

Sodium formaldehyde sulfoxylate is a water-soluble antioxidant and is generally used as the dihydrate. It is used in the formulation of injection products at a level of up to 0.1% w/v in the final preparation administered to the patient.

Safety

The toxicological properties of sodium formaldehyde sulfoxylate have not been fully investigated. However, it is used in the formulation of injection products at a level to 0.1% w/v in the final preparation administered to the patient.
Sodium formaldehyde sulfoxylate is moderately toxic by ingestion, and when heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of sulfur dioxide and sodium oxide.
LD50 (mouse, oral): 4 g/kg
LD50 (rat, IP): >2 g/kg
LD50 (rat, oral): >2 g/kg

Storage

Store in well-closed, light-resistant containers at controlled room temperature (15–30℃).

Incompatibilities

Sodium formaldehyde sulfoxylate is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents; it is decomposed by dilute acid.

Regulatory Status

Included in the FDA Inactive Ingredients Database (parenteral products up to 0.1% via the IM, IV, and SC routes). Included in the Canadian List of Acceptable Non-medicinal Ingredients.