Zinc sulphate
[CAS# 7733-02-0]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Vitamins and minerals >> Trace elements and mineral drugs
• Name: Zinc sulphate
• Molecular Formula: ZnSO₄
• Molecular Weight: 161.45
• CAS Registry Number: 7733-02-0
• EC Number: 231-793-3
• SMILES: [O-]S(=O)(=O)[O-].[Zn+2]

Properties

• Solubility: Soluble (water)
• Density: 1.97 g/mL g/cm³
• Melting point: 100 °C

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS07;GHS09 Danger
• Risk Statements: H302-H318-H400-H410
• Safety Statements: S26;S39;S61

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	1	H400
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	1	H410
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H312
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Carcinogenicity	Carc.	1A	H350
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411

• Transport Information: UN 3082; UN 9161

Discovery and Applications

The discovery of zinc sulphate dates back centuries, tracing its origins to the recognition of the medicinal properties of zinc and sulphur compounds. Zinc, an essential mineral, plays a pivotal role in numerous physiological processes, including immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. Sulphate, derived from sulfur, is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The combination of these two elements in the form of zinc sulphate represents a potent therapeutic agent with diverse applications in medicine.

Initially utilized in traditional medicine for its wound-healing properties, zinc sulphate gained prominence as a treatment for various dermatological conditions, including acne, eczema, and diaper rash. In recent years, zinc sulphate has garnered attention for its role in the management of common cold symptoms. Zinc sulphate exerts its antiviral effects by inhibiting viral replication and modulating immune responses, making it a valuable adjunct therapy for respiratory infections. Moreover, zinc sulphate holds promise in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, such as diarrhea and peptic ulcers. As an essential nutrient for intestinal epithelial integrity, zinc plays a crucial role in maintaining gut barrier function and mucosal immunity. Beyond its topical and oral applications, zinc sulphate has found utility in ophthalmology as a treatment for eye conditions like conjunctivitis and blepharitis. Its antimicrobial properties help combat bacterial and viral infections, while its anti-inflammatory effects reduce ocular inflammation and discomfort. In veterinary medicine, zinc sulphate is used in the treatment of hoof disorders in livestock, such as foot rot in cattle and thrush in horses. Its antiseptic properties aid in disinfecting wounds and promoting tissue regeneration, facilitating the healing process in animals.

References

1991. Enhancement of re-epithelialization with topical zinc oxide in porcine partial-thickness wounds. The Journal of surgical research, 50(2).
DOI: 10.1016/0022-4804(91)90230-j

1990. Effect of zinc sulphate on acetic acid-induced gastric ulceration in rats. The Journal of pharmacy and pharmacology, 42(9).
DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-7158.1990.tb06627.x

1979. Acute toxicity of copper, chromate, zinc, and cyanide to freshwater fish: Effect of different temperatures. Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 22(4-5).
DOI: 10.1007/bf02026917