Product Identification

Product Name

Oxymetazoline

Synonyms

2-(4-tert-Butyl-2,6-dimethyl-3-hydroxybenzyl)-2-imidazoline
Afrin
Hazol
Oxylazine
Phenol, 3-[(4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl)methyl]-6-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-2,4-dimethyl-
Rhinofrenol

CAS

1491-59-4

Formula

C16H24N2O

Molecular Weight

260.38

EINECS

216-079-1

RTECS

SK1050000

RTECS Class

Drug; Reproductive Effector

Merck

12,7100

Beilstein/Gmelin

886303

Beilstein Reference

5-23-11-00424

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

Crystals from benzene.

Solubility in water

Slightly soluble

Melting Point

181-183

pKa/pKb

3.47 (pKb)

Usage

Medication.

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

Seek medical attention. If individual is drowsy or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth; place individual on the left side with the head down. Contact a physician, medical facility, or poison control center for advice about whether to induce vomiting. If possible, do not leave individual unattended.

Inhalation

If symptoms develop, move individual away from exposure and into fresh air. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen. Keep person warm and quiet; seek immediate medical attention.

Skin

Flush skin with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing and shoes.

Eyes

If symptoms develop, immediately move individual away from exposure and into fresh air. Flush eyes gently with water for at least 15 minutes while holding eyelids apart; seek immediate medical attention.

Handling and Storage

Storage

Keep in a cool, dry, dark location in a tightly sealed container or cylinder. Keep away from incompatible materials, ignition sources and untrained individuals. Secure and label area. Protect containers/cylinders from physical damage.

Handling

All chemicals should be considered hazardous. Avoid direct physical contact. Use appropriate, approved safety equipment. Untrained individuals should not handle this chemical or its container. Handling should occur in a chemical fume hood.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

Decreased respirations and intermittent apnea may be noted.

Ingestion

Nausea and vomiting may be noted.

Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Personal Protection

Chemical splash goggles in compliance with OSHA regulations are advised; however, OSHA regulations also permit other type safety glasses. Whre chemical resistant gloves. To prevent repeated or prolonged skin contact, wear impervious clothing and boots.

Respirators

Use NIOSH/MSHA approved respirator appropriate for exposure of concern.

Exposure Effects

Elevated blood pressure is common initially; abnormally low blood pressure may occur; low heart rate is common in children; reduced body temperature and respiratory depression have been reported. headache, nervousness, tremors, and insomnia are frequently reported. Marked drowsiness and mild coma with alternating periods of hyperactivity and thrashing behavior have been reported in children.

Fire Fighting Measures

Fire Fighting

Wear a self-contained breathing apparatus in pressure-demand, MSHA/NIOSH (approved or equivalent), and full protective gear. During a fire, irritating and highly toxic gases may be generated by thermal decomposition or combustion. Use agent most appropriate to extinguish fire.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Evacuate area and ventilate. Wear protective equipment. If required, use an inert absrobent. Sweep up and place in an appropriate container for disposal. Wash contaminated surfaces.

Stability and Reactivity

Stability

Stable in light and heat, and is nonhygroscopic hydrochloride.

Incompatibilities

Strong oxidizing agents.