Thimerosal: current sources of contact in Brazil

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Toxicology
• Public Health

Background:

• Thimerosal, an organic mercury compound, is a preservative used in some ophthalmic solutions and vaccines.
• Previous research indicates a potentially high prevalence of thimerosal sensitivity.
• The clinical significance of thimerosal sensitivity remains a subject of investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the presence of thimerosal in pharmaceutical products available in Brazil.
• To evaluate the potential exposure to thimerosal from topical medications and vaccines.

Main Methods:

• A survey of 184 pharmaceutical products marketed in Brazil.
• Analysis included 151 topical medications and 33 vaccines.
• Identification of products containing thimerosal.

Main Results:

• Thimerosal was detected in a small fraction of the surveyed products.
• Specifically, thimerosal was found in 3 out of 151 topical ophthalmic solutions.
• Thimerosal was also identified in 5 out of 33 vaccines.

Conclusions:

• The presence of thimerosal in Brazilian pharmaceutical products is limited.
• The low prevalence suggests a reduced potential for widespread exposure.
• Current findings support the notion that thimerosal sensitivity may not pose a significant clinical concern in the Brazilian context.