Name: Probenecid
Chemical Identity: 4-[(Dipropylamino)sulfonyl]benzoic acid
CAS Number: 57-66-9
Common Uses: Treatment for gout, adjunct in antibiotic therapy
Physical Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder
Molecular Formula: C13H19NO4S
Industries Involved: Pharmaceutical manufacturing, research laboratories, compounding pharmacies
Acute Risks: Respiratory, skin, and eye irritation on direct contact; possible allergic reactions in sensitive people
Chronic Risks: Potential for kidney irritation, possible effects on red blood cell function after prolonged exposure
Flammability: Typically considered non-flammable, though fine powders can dust up and catch fire under certain conditions
Health Hazard Symbols: Harmful if swallowed, irritating to respiratory tract, skin, and eyes
Specific Concerns: Asthmatics or those with existing kidney conditions may face increased risks upon exposure
Main Ingredient: Probenecid (100% active pharmaceutical ingredient in pure product)
Known Impurities: Small percentages of related sulfonic acids or benzoic acid derivatives in technical grade batches
Typical Purity: Pharmaceutical supplies generally exceed 98% assay
Inhalation: Remove person to fresh air, monitor for coughing, difficulty breathing, or chest discomfort; seek medical attention if symptoms linger
Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; avoid scrubbing which can aggravate irritation
Eye Contact: Rinse under running water for several minutes, blink occasionally to dislodge particles, see a doctor if irritation persists
Ingestion: Rinse mouth, drink water if person is conscious, do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional
Suitable Extinguishing Media: Water spray, dry chemical, carbon dioxide, foam
Combustion Hazards: Toxic fumes may develop, including nitrogen and sulfur oxides
Personal Protective Measures: Firefighters should use self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective gear
Special Procedures: Move containers from fire area if safe, avoid inhaling fumes and smoke, ventilate areas after extinguishment
Spill Control: Scoop solids gently, avoid raising dust clouds, ventilate the room
Cleanup Procedures: Wipe up residues using damp disposable cloths, dispose of all cleaning materials as pharmaceutical waste
Precautions: Wear gloves, goggles, and suitable respiratory protection; prevent run-off into drains or sewers
Handling: Avoid direct contact with eyes and skin, wear appropriate gloves and eye protection, wash hands after use
Storage: Keep in a tightly closed container, store in a dry and well-ventilated area, keep away from heat sources and incompatible materials such as strong acids and bases
Incompatible Materials: Strong oxidizing agents, acids, and bases can degrade product and risk hazardous byproducts
Other Considerations: Segregate from food, beverages, and animal feeds to prevent accidental contamination
General Measures: Use engineering controls like fume hoods or local exhaust to manage airborne concentrations
Personal Protective Equipment: Laboratory coats, disposable gloves made from nitrile or similar material, chemical safety goggles, dust masks if powder manipulation generates airborne dust
Hygiene Practices: Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking near product; wash hands before breaks or after handling
Workplace Monitoring: Regularly assess airborne particulates in settings with large-scale powder handling
Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder
Odor: No strong odor
Melting Point: 194-195°C
Boiling Point: Not volatile at standard conditions
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, readily soluble in alcohols and certain organic solvents
pH: Slightly acidic in aqueous solution
Vapor Pressure: Negligible at room temperature
Chemical Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions, degrades on long-term exposure to strong light or heat
Hazardous Reactions: Contact with oxidizers, acids, or bases triggers breakdown; may release sulfur oxides on decomposition
Other Risks: Moisture absorption over time can clump product and affect quality
Routes of Exposure: Absorption possible via ingestion, skin, eyes, and inhalation
Short-Term Effects: Gastrointestinal discomfort, skin irritation, eye redness, coughing
Long-Term Exposure: Possible kidney irritation; at very high exposures, may affect red blood cell activity
Sensitization: Allergic reactions rare but possible, particularly with existing sensitivity to sulfonamides
Carcinogenic Status: No identified carcinogenicity based on available animal and human studies at standard exposure levels
Aquatic Toxicity: Possible risk to aquatic organisms if released in large quantities, limited studies on environmental fate
Persistence: Not readily biodegradable, can persist in surface waters for extended periods
Bioaccumulation: Evidence of low potential in common aquatic species based on structure and solubility
Terrestrial Impact: Expected low impact in small, controlled spill situations, care needed to prevent entry into water bodies
Disposal Methods: Incineration in accordance with local regulations, do not flush into drains or natural waterways, collect and label waste for specialist removal
Container Disposal: Wash thoroughly, remove all traces of product, dispose of containers as chemical waste
Other Tips: Collaborate with environmental and hazardous waste professionals for bulk quantities or expired stocks
Shipping Classification: Not usually regulated as a dangerous good; check for changes in regulations for international shipments
Packaging: Use sealed, robust containers to prevent spills and exposure during transit
Labeling: Mark packages to indicate chemical content to prevent mix-ups during handling
Environmental Precautions: Secure shipments to avoid leaks in case of accidents, especially near sensitive environments
Pharmaceutical Status: Controlled as a prescription drug in many countries
Occupational Limits: No specific OSHA or ACGIH exposure limits, but general best practices for pharmaceuticals apply
Environmental Rules: Several regions require reporting and management of pharmaceutical waste, including waterway protection rules
Community Right-to-Know: Healthcare and research businesses should maintain clear records and communication according to local hazardous materials laws