← Search & browse all drugs

thiomersal

D08AK06

Forms & Strengths

Topical tincture 1:1000
Topical solution 1:1000
Historical vaccine preservative (trace amounts)

Adult Dosing

Topical antiseptic: apply locally to skin as needed for minor cuts, wounds, and abrasions
Ophthalmic use: historical formulations used at 1:5000 to 1:10000 dilution (largely obsolete)

Pediatric Dosing

Topical antiseptic: apply sparingly to affected area (use with extreme caution due to risk of systemic mercury toxicity)
Vaccine preservative: historical use in pediatric immunizations (largely removed or reduced to trace in routine childhood vaccines)

Indications

First-aid antiseptic for minor skin wounds, cuts, and scrapes
Historical preservative in multi-dose vaccines and biological products

Mechanism of Action

Organomercury compound acting as an antiseptic and disinfectant
Exerts bacteriostatic and fungistatic effects by binding to sulfhydryl (-SH) groups of microbial proteins, disrupting enzymatic activity and cell membrane integrity

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to mercury-containing compounds or thimerosal
Application to large, deep, or severely lacerated wounds due to risk of systemic mercury absorption
Use in neonates or infants for vaccine preservation where mercury-free alternatives are preferred

Adverse Reactions

Local skin irritation, burning, and erythema
Allergic contact dermatitis and delayed hypersensitivity reactions
Systemic mercury toxicity with prolonged or extensive application on broken skin
Hypersensitivity reactions ranging from mild rash to anaphylaxis

Drug Interactions

Topical iodine or other oxidizing agents: may cause chemical incompatibility or reduced efficacy
Heavy metal antagonists (e.g., chelating agents like dimercaprol): may alter disposition or enhance excretion of mercury
Other topical mercurial antiseptics: cumulative risk of local skin irritation and systemic toxicity

Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use