Antimony Potassium Tartrate 98.5%

Antimony Potassium Tartrate, also known as tartar emetic, is a compound with a notable history of medicinal and industrial applications. However, its toxicity has significantly limited its modern use. Here's a more detailed overview:

Chemical Properties and Characteristics:

• Chemical Formula: K₂Sb₂(C₄H₂O₆)₂
• Appearance: White crystalline powder.
• Solubility: Soluble in water.
• It is a metalloid salt.

Historical and Current Uses:

• Historical Medicinal Use:
  • Historically, it was used as an emetic (to induce vomiting) and an expectorant (to promote mucus discharge from the respiratory tract).
  • It was also used in the treatment of certain parasitic infections, such as schistosomiasis and leishmaniasis.
  • However, due to its toxicity and the availability of safer alternatives, its use in human medicine has largely been discontinued.
• Veterinary Medicine:
  • It is still used in veterinary medicine, particularly as a ruminatoric (to stimulate rumen contractions in ruminant animals).
• Industrial Applications:
  • It is used as a mordant in the textile and leather industries, helping dyes to adhere to fabrics and leather.
  • It has also been used as an insecticide.

Toxicity and Safety Concerns:

• Toxicity:
  • Antimony potassium tartrate is a toxic compound.
  • Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, cardiac toxicity, and even death.
  • It can also cause skin and respiratory irritation.
• Handling Precautions:
  • It must be handled with extreme care, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Exposure should be minimized.

Key Points:

• While historically significant, the use of antimony potassium tartrate has declined due to its toxicity.
• Its current applications are primarily limited to veterinary medicine and certain industrial processes.
• Due to the toxic nature of this compound, it is very important to handle it with care.