When freshly prepared, sodium formaldehyde sulfoxylate occurs as
white, odorless crystals, which quickly develop a characteristic
garlic odor on standing.
Sodium hydroxymethanesulfinate dihydrate is a versatile reagent that can be used for a wide range of organic transformations such as:
- A SO2-2anion source for the preparation of sulfones and sultines.
- Debromination of vicinal dibromoalkanes.
- Reductive dehalogenation of aldehydes and ketones.
Pharmaceutic aid (preservative).
Sodium formaldehyde sulfoxylate is manufactured from sodium
dithionate and formaldehyde in water.
Oxidation reation of hydroxymethanesulfinic acid with chlorite has been studied in the pH range 4-8. It is a sulfur-containing reducing agent.
Pharmaceutical Applications
Sodium formaldehyde sulfoxylate is a water-soluble antioxidant
and is generally used as the dihydrate. It is used in the formulation
of injection products at a level of up to 0.1% w/v in the final
preparation administered to the patient.
The toxicological properties of sodium formaldehyde sulfoxylate
have not been fully investigated. However, it is used in the
formulation of injection products at a level to 0.1% w/v in the
final preparation administered to the patient.
Sodium formaldehyde sulfoxylate is moderately toxic by
ingestion, and when heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes
of sulfur dioxide and sodium oxide.
LD50 (mouse, oral): 4 g/kg
LD50 (rat, IP): >2 g/kg
LD50 (rat, oral): >2 g/kg
Store in well-closed, light-resistant containers at controlled room
temperature (15–30℃).
Sodium formaldehyde sulfoxylate is incompatible with strong
oxidizing agents; it is decomposed by dilute acid.
Included in the FDA Inactive Ingredients Database (parenteral
products up to 0.1% via the IM, IV, and SC routes). Included in the
Canadian List of Acceptable Non-medicinal Ingredients.
