Ethacridine lactate monohydrate comes as a solid organic compound with notable antibacterial properties, used mainly as a raw material in pharmaceutical and laboratory settings. Commonly seen as yellow flakes, powder, crystals, or occasionally in pearl and liquid forms, it earns its reputation through strong chemical structure and recognizable appearance. This compound forms from ethacridine combined with lactic acid and water, producing a monohydrate version that has shaped clinical work for decades.
Ethacridine lactate monohydrate rides on a solid density, generally calculated around 1.36 grams per cubic centimeter. This material stands out due to its defined melting point range, often sitting between 183°C and 192°C, showing solid thermal reliability. Under the microscope, ethacridine lactate monohydrate takes the form of either fine yellow flakes or a crystalline powder. Sometimes it appears almost pearlescent, a detail seasoned chemists recognize well after years handling chemical materials. It dissolves readily in water, yielding a clear yellow solution that plays a crucial role in its function as an antiseptic and disinfectant. In its solid state, the compound keeps stable in ambient conditions, maintaining integrity if kept dry and sealed from light.
The molecular formula for ethacridine lactate monohydrate comes as C18H21N3O4·C3H6O3·H2O, linking the acridine derivative to lactic acid along with a molecule of water. The presence of that water molecule, the monohydrate, sets this compound apart from its anhydrous counterpart. Its molecular weight reaches approximately 505.55 grams per mole. Chemical structure showcases a tricyclic acridine ring, flanked by functional side chains that grant the substance its antimicrobial punch. These features draw interest from researchers aiming for targeted medicinal effects and practical applications in industry.
Ethacridine lactate monohydrate generally arrives at laboratories and production floors in different forms. Solid flakes and powdered crystals remain the go-to picks for those who measure by mass or purity, delivering convenience in handling and storage. Pearls or granular forms have niche roles, mostly where consistent dispersion matters. Solutions produced by dissolving the material in water or saline maintain routine in clinics for wound irrigation, especially since the yellow hue creates easy visual differentiation from other agents. High-grade lots aim for 98% purity or higher, verified through standardized titration or chromatography.
Imports and exports mark ethacridine lactate monohydrate under the HS Code 29339900, covering heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen heteroatom(s). Safety always comes under the microscope in the chemical trade. Shipping documents record purity, appearance, as well as volume per liter when in solution. The regulatory framework asks for clear documentation about safe handling, possible hazards, and an outline of chemical dangers. Manufacturers typically highlight the need for dust control, proper labeling on containers, and tightly sealed packaging for solids and solutions alike.
Experience teaches every chemist caution with ethacridine lactate monohydrate. Though classified as an antiseptic, the concentrated powder or solution can irritate skin, eyes, or the respiratory tract. If swallowed, it may produce harmful systemic effects. Safety data sheets recommend protective gear, from gloves and goggles to respirators when working with powders. Raw materials never belong in untrained hands. Disposal happens under local law covering hazardous waste streams; the yellow effluent should not enter general wastewater without treatment. Long hours in the lab reinforce the lesson—treat every chemical as potentially hazardous until proven otherwise.
Ethacridine lactate monohydrate still finds uses as a chemical raw material in both pharmaceutical synthesis and direct clinical practice. Hospitals reach for it during wound irrigation, especially for mild superficial infections. Labs use its solutions to control contamination or in preparation of certain dyes or reagents. Over the years, industry trends have leaned on this material’s reliability, especially in places with rising antibacterial resistance. While newer agents flood the market, medical professionals continue to trust it for its broad safety margin at working concentrations, so long as guidelines on use and disposal stay in place.
Storing ethacridine lactate monohydrate requires a cool, dry setting, away from direct light, tightly closed and labeled with clear content specifications and hazards. Training shines as the first defense against workplace accidents, supported by updated safety data sheets distributed with every shipment. Regular inspection of personal protective equipment, clear site signage, and proper chemical spill response keep risks in check. Those designing new pharmaceuticals or industrial processes should always include clear steps for handling, product verification, and waste management. Shifts in regulations or local standards demand flexible protocols rooted in up-to-date evidence and user experience.
