Mercury Reduction Best Management Practices for Mercury-containing Products in the Hospital Pharmaceutical Products

Currently mercury can be present in pharmaceutical products even when it is not listed on the label or on the product information sheet. As can be seen in the table below, the mercury is usually introduced as a preservative.   Pharmaceutical Uses of Mercury Product Notes Merbromin/water solution Used in plastic/reconstructive surgery as a disinfectant and marker Ophthalmic and contact lens products May contain mercury preservatives: thimerosal, phenylmercuric acetate, phenylmercuric nitrate Nasal Sprays May contain mercury preservatives: thimerosal, phenylmercuric acetate, phenylmercuric nitrate Vaccines May contain thimerosal (primarily in hemophilus, hepatitis, rabies, tetanus, influenza, diphtheria and pertussis vaccines)   Alternatives for mercury-containing pharmaceutical products Be aware of changes in the pharmaceutical industry. In many cases, products with mercury-free preservatives are available, and additional alternatives are likely to be available in the near future. In the meantime, request mercury-free pharmaceutical supplies whenever possible. Ask your vendor to assist the hospital in selecting mercury-free products for the pharmacy.

Best Management Practices Fever Thermometers Sphygmomanometers Gastrointestinal Tubes Dental Amalgam and Mercury Laboratory Chemicals Pharmaceutical Products Cleaners and Degreasers Batteries Lamps Electrical Equipment Thermostat Probes in Gas Appliances Industrial Thermometers Pressure Gauges Plumbing Spills Storage Areas Hospital Employee Health and Safety Related Topics: Case Studies Why is mercury a problem? How to establish mercury pollution prevention in your hospital. Bibliography

Best Management Practices for Mercury-containing Products in the Hospital   Mercury Reduction   R E G I S T E R     G L O S S A R Y     F E E D B A C K     S I T E  M A P     H O M E

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