Norepinephrine bitartrate anhydrous stands out in the world of organic chemistry as a compound used both in research and synthesized medicine for its physiological effects. Most people know norepinephrine as a neurotransmitter or hormone tied to responses to stress and cardiovascular regulation. Its anhydrous bitartrate salt carries special properties useful in many industrial and laboratory contexts, offering a balance of crystallinity, purity, and ease of handling. Understanding its traits, from its chemical backbone to its tactile, physical form, helps anyone working with chemical raw materials make smart, safe decisions.
This product typically appears as a white or off-white solid. Texture ranges from flakes and fine powder to small crystalline pearls. It does not generally take liquid or viscous forms at room temperature, holding its structure as a solid. Usually, these solids feel firm but can break down into powders with proper grinding. Chemically, it is described by the molecular formula C8H11NO3·C4H6O6, composed of a norepinephrine base salt and the bitartrate counterion. Molecular weight lands near 337.3 g/mol. On the molecular level, the structure features a catechol moiety, a secondary amine, and a carboxylate attachment from the bitartrate acid. These elements define not just the pharmacological profile, but also the handling and storage rules chemists follow in the workplace.
The density of norepinephrine bitartrate anhydrous comes in at roughly 1.4 g/cm³. Visual inspection under light often reveals a crystalline texture, shining slightly under glare, a sign of material purity. At standard temperature, the solid resists dissolution in many organic solvents but dissolves efficiently in water, producing clear solutions. From experience handling similar catecholamines and their salts, it is important to keep storage containers tightly sealed away from light and humidity, as norepinephrine tends to oxidize, leading to color changes and potency loss. Stability depends on dryness and protection from contaminants; powdered or crystalline forms keep longer than partially dissolved or humid samples.
A compound like this falls into a class that demands attention to safety and potential hazards. Direct contact can cause skin and eye irritation in sensitive individuals and inhalation or ingestion at significant doses involves risk of cardiovascular or central nervous system effects. Because norepinephrine is active biologically, improper handling can lead to heightened heart rate, blood pressure spikes, and nervous symptoms. Research laboratories use it under controlled settings, with fume hoods and gloves as standard protocol. On the hazardous materials chart, it counts as an irritant and a potentially harmful substance if misused. Disposal routines must follow chemical waste policies, and spillage clean-up always relies on PPE (personal protective equipment).
Trading chemicals across international borders brings up tariff and control issues, where substances like norepinephrine bitartrate anhydrous receive a Harmonized System Code (HS Code) classification under 2922.49. The code places it within a broader family of organic chemicals, specifically amine compounds and their derivatives. Importers, exporters, and manufacturers all refer to this code to manage customs clearance, safety documentation, and transportation labeling. Regulatory authorities will expect details about its status as a hazardous raw material, including the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for chemical hazard communication. All these elements combine to limit mishandling and prevent harm downstream.
In the lab, norepinephrine bitartrate anhydrous functions as both an experimental control and an active agent in preclinical drug investigation. Pharmaceutical makers rely on its standard form to produce injectables used in acute hypotensive states and cardiac care. Synthesis in bulk means rigorous testing for melting point, water content, and residual solvent levels, as even minor impurities affect drug safety and potency. Beyond pharmacology, this compound serves as a raw material in the synthesis of related catecholamine derivatives. Scientists probing neurotransmitter pathways use exact measures, seeking consistent density and solubility when running experiments on tissues and receptor systems.
From long days in the chemical storeroom, I know that a dry, cool, airtight environment lengthens the shelf life of norepinephrine bitartrate anhydrous. Light-sensitive containers protect against degradation, as ultraviolet and visible light both prompt chemical breakdown. When scaled for manufacturing, materials managers track container weights down to the gram, since excess moisture entry can clump powders or crystallize flakes, lowering usability. Handling routine includes frequent checks of appearance and physical consistency. Any shift in color from white to tan or brown means oxidation and quick removal from active inventory. In solution, filtered samples should read clear and colorless; any cloudiness calls for disposal and batch replacement.
Problems arising from oxidation, contamination, and unsafe handling of norepinephrine bitartrate anhydrous trace back to gaps in training, equipment quality, and oversight. Regular staff training in chemical hygiene, plus routine audits of storage conditions, goes far toward keeping both people and product out of trouble. Automated climate-controlled storage and tamper-proof security further reduce risks of mismanagement. Manufacturers can improve labeling with QR codes linking to real-time material safety data—this supports rapid, accurate responses in emergencies or audits. Investing in closed-system extraction and transfer minimizes human exposure, lowers environmental footprint, and preserves product quality. These efforts prove their value in the real world, keeping operations legal, efficient, and much safer for participants at every stage.
Product: Norepinephrine Bitartrate Anhydrous
Chemical Formula: C8H11NO3·C4H6O6
Molecular Weight: 337.3 g/mol
Physical Appearance: White/off-white solid, crystalline powder, flakes, pearls
Density: ~1.4 g/cm³
Solubility: Highly soluble in water; limited in organic solvents
HS Code: 2922.49
Material Type: Catecholamine derivative, salt form
Hazards: Irritant; harmful if misused; requires PPE for handling
Raw Material Use: Pharmaceutical synthesis, chemical research, preclinical studies
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