Metaraminol Tartrate: Properties, Structure, Specifications, and Material Insights

What Is Metaraminol Tartrate?

Metaraminol Tartrate stands out as a synthetic sympathomimetic amine, recognized by its application in medicine for elevating blood pressure during hypotensive states. It presents as a white to almost white crystalline powder or solid, sometimes forming small flakes or pearls. Its solid, odorless nature makes it easy to distinguish among injectable raw materials. This substance behaves as a potent alpha-adrenergic agonist, bringing about vasoconstriction and supporting critical care scenarios. Molecularly, it holds a formula of C17H23NO7, blending metaraminol with two tartaric acid residues, which control its solubility and pharmaceutical stability.

Structure and Molecular Formula

The molecular structure of Metaraminol Tartrate consists of a benzyl ethanolamine backbone, functionalized with hydroxy groups and paired with tartaric acid. This fusion not only improves water solubility but also provides a predictable dissolution profile, essential for pharmaceutical preparations. Looking closer, the substance includes a chiral center, giving rise to specific optical activity and influencing the way the molecule interacts with receptors in the human body. Its definitive molecular weight clocks in at roughly 369.36 g/mol, a value critical in dosing calculations, preparation of IV solutions, and transport within biological systems.

Physical Properties, Appearance, and Density

This compound appears as either fine powder, solid crystalline masses, or, less commonly, as thin pearls or flakes. In labs, I’ve noticed that the density holds near 1.49 g/cm³, a figure that affects the speed at which it settles out of improper solutions and changes the way it handles during manufacturing. Its melting point typically hovers around 175°C (347°F), turning from solid to a clear liquid when employed under controlled pharmaceutical conditions. The property profile helps define storage parameters: cool, dry, and shaded from light. Metaraminol Tartrate dissolves with ease in water, producing clear solutions at standard concentrations, a trait vital for intravenous applications. In contrast, it shows low solubility in organic solvents like ethanol and ether, a reminder to workers on the solvent choices for both analysis and synthesis.

Chemical Properties and Hazards

Working with Metaraminol Tartrate requires care because it qualifies as both a potent chemical and a regulated pharmaceutical material. From years in the lab, I’ve observed that its chemical reactivity remains low under normal conditions; it resists oxidation and doesn’t degrade easily, ideal for extended storage. The substance is not flammable, but it should stay away from acids or strong oxidizers which might promote its breakdown. Safety data highlights that exposure can lead to irritation of the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract, with ingestion or improper IV use leading to cardiovascular complications. It counts as hazardous if mishandled, so gloves, goggles, and fume hoods aren’t negotiable. Unlabeled or misused raw material could harm, not heal, and the consequences in busy hospital wards can reach far beyond a simple mistake.

HS Code, Bulk Packaging, and Industry Roles

Metaraminol Tartrate falls under the international trade HS Code 2922199090, categorized among other organic bases and their salts. This means custom officers expect strict labeling, with country-of-origin and purity information attached to every shipment. The chemical market sees quantities packaged in sealed, light-blocking drums or bottles, bulking from 1 kg for research up to 50 kg for industrial or hospital distribution. Each container bears integrity seals and must meet transportation guidelines for hazardous pharmaceuticals, including UN numbers and GHS labeling. I’ve seen policy shifts impact delivery timelines, with border checks and documentation affecting global supply chains. Traceability and quality certifications, like GMP and ISO, keep the risk of contamination low and accountability clear.

Solutions, Preparation, and Laboratory Experiences

Preparation of Metaraminol Tartrate for clinical or research use focuses on strict control of concentration, solvent purity, and pH. Whether preparing solutions for experiments or infusions, the steps remain consistent: dissolve the measured powder or flakes into sterile water, filter for clarity, and adjust concentration to ensure safety. Even in trusted labs, cross-checking with HPLC or spectrometric analysis remains essential. When accuracy falters, dosage slips, and patient outcomes can turn unpredictable. To keep solutions stable, the storage environment must remain cool (2°C–8°C) and dry, with opaque bottles limiting photodegradation. Stability studies indicate that solutions degrade rapidly in the presence of light or microbial contamination, highlighting a need for single-use vials in medical practice.

Raw Material Sourcing and Quality Considerations

Sourcing high-quality Metaraminol Tartrate calls for collaboration with certified suppliers who disclose full laboratory analysis, including impurity profiles, residual solvent data, and heavy metal screening. Trusted shipments always include certificates of analysis, batch numbers, and relevant customs codes. The consequences of subpar or adulterated raw materials ripple across the pharmaceutical landscape. Ineffective or dangerous ingredients can run through production cycles, risking patient safety and causing expensive recalls. I have seen production lines slowed by missing paperwork or low-purity consignments, hurting both operational efficiency and market reputation. Robust testing and adherence to global standards keep adverse incidents rare. The supply chain benefits from greater investment in transparency, tech-driven batch tracking, and supplier audit programs, all aimed at rebuilding trust that gets tested with every order and inspection.

Safer Handling, Ethical Application, and Environmental Impact

Safer handling procedures start with strong workplace culture; training lab staff and warehouse employees lies at the core. I’ve found that frequent safety drills, up-to-date material safety data sheets, and the presence of spill kits stand as the frontline defense against chemical accidents. Laboratories implement strict protocols for disposal—neutralization and incineration of Metaraminol Tartrate residues, not simple drain disposal. Widespread adoption of green chemistry principles can trim down waste, while regulators push for more circular approaches to raw material sourcing. The urgency grows especially as hazardous pharmaceutical materials enter water tables or soils. Though Metaraminol Tartrate does not rate as the most ecologically persistent compound, systemic leaks can still pose risks. Manufacturers and users must respect regulations while pressing for cleaner and more efficient synthesis, less hazardous auxiliaries, and strong containment. Every change matters in nudging the field away from preventable harm and toward greater stewardship.

Summary of Key Specifications

  • Molecular formula: C17H23NO7
  • Molecular weight: 369.36 g/mol
  • Appearance: White powder, crystals, flakes, solid, or pearls
  • Density: 1.49 g/cm³
  • Melting point: 175°C (347°F)
  • Water solubility: High, forms clear aqueous solutions
  • HS Code: 2922199090
  • Hazards: Can be harmful, handle with gloves, goggles, and proper ventilation
  • Uses: Active ingredient in vasoconstrictor therapy, critical care medication

Building Trust in the Supply Chain

Real trust between supplier, manufacturer, and end-user grows from transparency and accountability. The story of Metaraminol Tartrate echoes through every batch release and every patient given the compound. In my experience, untangling production errors, unforeseen contamination, or ambiguous documentation leads to delays, wasted money, and unsafe medicine. By tightening controls, listening to good practice from seasoned chemists, and tracking every shipment, the industry can root out shoddy practices and put safety first. Open reporting channels, data-driven audits, and stronger international cooperation have already cut down on incidents involving counterfeit or defective materials. Everyone—from manufacturer to pharmacist—plays a part in shielding patients from harm and moving forward with confidence in the compounds circulating in our hospitals and labs.