Ferric subsulfate solution

Ferric subsulfate solution

Systematic (IUPAC) name
Iron(+3) cation dihydroxide pentasulfate
Clinical data
Routes of administration	topical
Identifiers
CAS Number	1310-45-8 Y
PubChem	CID 159372
Chemical data
Formula	Fe4H2O22S5
Molar mass	737.713 g/mol
(verify)

Ferric subsulfate solution is a styptic or haemostatic agent used after superficial skin biopsies.^[1] Ferric subsulfate solution is also known as basic ferric sulfate solution or Monsel's solution. It has a recognised formula published in United States Pharmacopeia 29.

Active ingredients

Ferric subsulfate solution is prepared from ferrous sulfate, sulfuric acid and nitric acid.

It contains, in each 100 mL, basic ferric sulfate equivalent to not less than 20g and not more than 22g of iron.

Storage

Ferric subsulfate solution should be stored in airtight containers at a temperature above 22 degrees Celsius. Crystallisation may occur at temperatures below 22 degrees. Warming the solution may redissolve the crystals. The solution should be protected from light.

Other uses

Ferric subsulfate (also known as Monsell's Solution) is often used by Jewish burial societies (chevra kadisha) to stop post-mortem bleeding. Since Jewish burial does not allow any external skin adhesives such as bandages, tape, glue or resin, ferric subsulfate is an effective way to stop post-mortem bleeding. Most post-mortem bleeding stems from surgery, emergency room situations, autopsies or blood which may result when removing IV lines during Jewish burial preparation. A piece of cotton, or Q-tip, soaked with this solution is pressed against the open wound and held for a few seconds. This is usually enough time for the seal to take effect. For more severe cases, such as arterial lines, if the line is still inside, the solution can be inserted directly into the IV line.^[2]

Brandnames

AstrinGyn by CooperSurgical is a thickened and specially modified gel formulation.

History

It was invented in the late 1840s by Leon Monsel (March 13, 1816 – April 15, 1878), a French Military Pharmacist. His invention soon became a standard in the French Corps which saved many lives during battles of the French Army.

References