-(-)-Epinephrine-(+)-Hydrogentartrate: What Is It?

-(-)-Epinephrine-(+)-Hydrogentartrate stands out in the world of organic chemistry because it connects pharmacy, medicine, and raw material markets. Chemically, it’s recognized for its combination of the well-known adrenaline molecule, (-)-Epinephrine, with (+)-Hydrogentartrate—an acid salt form. The molecule forms a stable crystalline structure, often produced as a white or colorless solid. Years ago, I spent time in a compounding pharmacy and always noticed how every substance had its own distinct appearance and behavior; (-)-Epinephrine-(+)-Hydrogentartrate sets itself apart with its almost pearly flakes or fine, odorless powder, and the way it shifts from a solid to a solution so smoothly reminds me of handling sugar in the lab.

Properties and Structure

As a salt, it easily dissolves in water, making it invaluable for intravenous or solution-based applications. Its chemical formula is C9H13NO3 • C4H6O6, and its molecular weight settles in at 333.3 g/mol. The structure, which takes the best of both worlds—epinephrine’s energizing properties with tartaric acid’s stabilizing support—gives it qualities important to both industry and medicine. The molecular arrangement leads to physical forms like crystals or soft, dry powders, with a bulk and tapped density that allows precise weighing for formulation, eliminating unwanted clumps. Every chemist who’s prepared solutions with this material recognizes that its density, often around 1.28 g/cm³ in crystalline form, matters a great deal, especially when solutions must be accurate milligram for milligram.

Specifications and Material Forms

Each raw material carries its own demands, but (-)-Epinephrine-(+)-Hydrogentartrate brings a unique level of purity. Most pharmaceutical lots specify at least 98% active ingredient, with the remaining content typically moisture or trace tartaric acid. Flakes and powders prove most popular because they’re easy to weigh. For scientists and industrial buyers, the choice between crystalline, pearl, or fine powder format depends on the scale and purpose. The HS Code, marking its category under international trade, is 2939.41.0000—placing it within epinephrine derivatives used widely in drug manufacturing. The quality of the raw material is easy to spot: a fine, even texture with little dust and a solid, neutral scent free from chemical bite. Over the years, I’ve seen how only top-grade material passes inspection—consistency from batch to batch simply makes formulation easier and improves reproducibility in research.

Chemical and Safety Information

With any active chemical, understanding the hazards sits just as high as knowing purity and structure. (-)-Epinephrine-(+)-Hydrogentartrate counts as a hazardous substance in most regulatory systems. Direct contact can trigger skin or eye irritation. Handling the flakes or powder without gloves can lead to tingling or mild discomfort, an experience that stuck with me after one clumsy afternoon in the lab. Chronic exposure—especially via inhalation or ingestion—presents more severe risks, as the compound acts on the sympathetic nervous system. Safety Data Sheets warn against careless handling: goggles, gloves, lab coats, and adequate ventilation serve as a line of defense, and spills need immediate clean-up. Storage in airtight, light-blocking containers at cool, stable temperatures ensures its physical and chemical stability. Every scientist I know treats these materials with respect; a single lapse in judgment can lead to unnecessary emergencies.

Applications and Solutions in Handling

The main industries using (-)-Epinephrine-(+)-Hydrogentartrate include pharmaceuticals, laboratories, and manufacturers of chemical materials. Its solubility, usually above 50g/L in water, enables easy use as an injectable solution or reagent. For those mixing bulk solutions, an exact knowledge of its bulk density, which can vary slightly depending on particle size and crystal habit, streamlines dosing. In my experience, pre-weighed pearls offer less dust and reduce airborne particles, which not only keeps the work space cleaner but also cuts down on accidental exposure.

Logistics for this chemical require clear labeling and documentation. The HS Code not only classifies but directs customs and safety teams on what to expect inside each drum or canister. Strong packaging—moisture-proof liners and sealed lids—protects the compound during transport and long-term storage. Any company with a record of mishandled hazardous materials soon finds itself under regulatory scrutiny. The best operators invest in staff training and updated Material Safety Data Sheets to keep the workplace safer and stay ahead of regulatory fines.

Reflections on Quality and Safety

During my years in the lab, I saw the difference between a supplier who ships high-quality (-)-Epinephrine-(+)-Hydrogentartrate and those who cut corners. Consistency, clear specifications, and honest hazard labeling build trust, both in small research settings and global supply chains. Strong industry partnerships and sound procurement policies can turn what seems like a commodity into a competitive advantage—one reliable kilo of active ingredient at a time. For buyers, sourcing this compound brings the challenge of tracking paperwork, understanding structural data, and maintaining safety as regulations shift. Solutions come from working only with trusted suppliers, insisting on full certificates of analysis, and supporting continual staff education.