Product Identification

Product Name

1-beta-D-Ribofuranosyl-1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxamide

Synonyms

1-beta-d-Ribofuranosyl-1H-1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxamide
ICN-1229
Rtca
Varazid
Viramid
Virazole

CAS

36791-04-5

Formula

C8H12N4O5

Molecular Weight

244.21

RTECS

XZ4250000

RTECS Class

Drug; Mutagen; Reproductive Effector

Merck

12,8365

Beilstein/Gmelin

892462

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

White powder.

Solubility in water

soluble

Melting Point

166-168

Usage

Antiviral agent.

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center. Be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital if advised by a physician.

Inhalation

IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air. If symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in the mouth, throat, or chest) develop, call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital. Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be used.

Skin

IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital for treatment.

Eyes

First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. If symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop, immediately transport the victim to a hospital.

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

Pulmonary dysfunction (i.E., Bronchospasm, bacterial pneumonia, pneumothorax) has occurred infrequently following therapeutic use of aerosolized ribavirin.

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

Wear a NIOSH-approved half face respirator equipped with an organic vapor/acid gas cartridge (specific for organic vapors, HCl, acid gas and SO2) with a dust/mist filter.

Exposure Effects

Health care workers exposed to the aerosolized formulation have developed minor symptoms. With therapeutic use - minor central nervous system effects (e.G., Dizziness, insomnia, irritability) have been reported following oral therapy. Experimental intravenous administration of ribavirin has been associated with the development of seizures and asthenia.

Fire Fighting Measures

Fire Fighting

Fires involving this material can be controlled with a dry chemical, carbon dioxide or Halon extinguisher.

Fire Potential

This material is probably combustible.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

If you spill this chemical, you should dampen the solid spill material with water, then transfer the dampened material to a suitable container. Use absorbent paper dampened with water to pick up any remaining material. Seal your contaminated clothing and the absorbent paper in a vapor-tight plastic bag for eventual disposal. Wash all contaminated surfaces with a soap and water solution. Do not reenter the contaminated area until the Safety Officer (or other responsible person) has verified that the area has been properly cleaned.

Stability and Reactivity

Incompatibilities

May be sensitive to prolonged exposure to light.

Stability

No data.