Lorcaserin hemi-l-tartrate comes from combining lorcaserin with tartrate to create a stable crystalline compound used for pharmaceutical research. Most folks in the lab notice right away that this raw material stands out because of its unique physical form and chemical stability. The chemical structure tells a detailed story—its molecular formula is C11H14ClN·C4H6O6 with a corresponding molecular weight best pegged at around 360.8 g/mol. Right off the bat, the substance takes the form of a white or nearly white crystalline powder, which helps those who work with raw actives for research or synthesis know what to look for.
Lorcaserin hemi-l-tartrate does not act like some amorphous compounds that float around as unclear gels or liquids; it lands solidly as a true powder or in well-defined pearls or flakes. When poured from the container, it feels dense, doesn’t clump easily, and shows a fine, refined consistency—no strange odors stick around, either. Density typically registers at 1.2–1.3 g/cm³, and this plays a role in accurate measurement, whether you’re scaling up synthesis or filling capsules. Color matters, so any tint of yellow or off-white signals a problem nobody wants—this chemist has always learned to trust uniform whiteness when spotting pharmaceutical-grade batches.
Take a closer look at the chemical makeup: lorcaserin, a selective serotonin 2C receptor agonist, gets paired with tartrate, which not only stabilizes the compound but also adds a specific crystalline lattice that resists moisture and regular temperature fluctuations. The bond between lorcaserin and tartrate—specifically hemi-l-tartrate—means each molecule associates with half a unit of tartaric acid, anchoring the product’s physical properties. This arrangement produces a crystalline solid, never turning oily or sticky, offering sure-handed handling during formulation. In practice, having a solid structure means it stores securely and reconstitutes into solution with minimal headache, making it a reliable raw material for pharmaceutical uses.
Solubility lands in the moderate range when mixed with water or alcohol-based solvents. Dissolving the compound in a neutral pH buffer can require gentle heating, but it dissolves cleanly, and the solution appears clear, so it’s easy to spot undissolved particles. Any attempt at direct scale-up requires careful weighing, since moisture can affect both the mass and the volume calculations—moisture uptakes may reduce the powder’s shelf life or lead to degradation products. This product is not flammable under regular lab conditions, but powder spillage can create a fine dust, so weighing inside a fume hood with anti-static precautions guards against accidental inhalation.
According to available data sheets, lorcaserin hemi-l-tartrate carries potential risks as a pharmacologically active compound. Toxicological profiles stress caution: the powder should never be inhaled, and use of gloves, goggles, and dust masks protect handlers from accidental exposure. It does not rank as a highly flammable or corrosive material by chemical standards, but ingestion or skin contact may cause mild to moderate irritation, so routine safety protocols matter. Eye-washing stations and quick cleanup for spills keep workspaces safe. I’ve found that storing this raw material in tightly sealed containers, away from direct sunlight and heat, keeps its integrity intact for extended periods.
The harmonized system (HS) code for lorcaserin hemi-l-tartrate typically falls under 2933.99, covering heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atoms. Importing or exporting raw chemicals often requires documentation, including this product’s certificate of analysis and safety data sheet. Regulatory controls play a key role because of the product’s pharmacological activity, and local jurisdictions in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia review shipment batches for compliance. Businesses and researchers must stay on top of documentation to avoid regulatory pitfalls—ignorance does not grant exemptions, so experience in documentation pays off.
Research labs rely on lorcaserin hemi-l-tartrate for making reference solutions, running residue analysis, and synthesizing prototypes for new drug development. Solid-state stability, good shelf life, and a consistent molecular structure mean lab operators see fewer failed batches and higher overall product yield. Quality raw material helps avoid expensive reruns of experiments and saves countless hours in troubleshooting. Building predictable pharmaceutical products means using reliable chemical feedstock like this, as inconsistencies in raw materials can ripple throughout an entire manufacturing chain. These are lessons wrenched from experience—time lost from a bad batch of powder rarely gets replaced, and the cost in effort runs high.
Scientists and formulators look for proven ways to keep lorcaserin hemi-l-tartrate stable and safe. Good climate control stands as the first defense: storage in cool, dry conditions in dark bottles, topped with desiccants, preserves the product’s pure crystalline form. Proper labeling with batch lot, concentration, and handling instructions cuts down on human error. Waste management using sealed, marked containers respects the product’s regulated status. If any doubts about quality or contamination arise, send fresh samples for independent analysis, even if it means pausing the line. Sharing best practices inside the lab and supporting team members with thorough training stops mistakes before they ruin entire projects.
Product Name: Lorcaserin Hemi-l-Tartrate
Chemical Formula: C11H14ClN·C4H6O6
Molecular Weight: Approx. 360.8 g/mol
Physical State: White crystalline solid, powder, pearls, or flakes
Density: 1.2–1.3 g/cm³
Solubility: Moderately soluble in water, ethanol
HS Code: 2933.99
Hazardous Properties: Pharmacologically active, mild-moderate irritant, not highly flammable
Applications: Pharmaceutical research, drug synthesis, analytical standards
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