phenylmercuric nitrate

Phenylmercuric nitrate is an organomercury compound used primarily as an antimicrobial preservative in pharmaceutical formulations, especially ophthalmic (eye drop) preparations. It exhibits bactericidal activity against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Historically, it has also been used as a germicide, fungicide, antiseptic, and spermicide (though its use in vaginal contraceptives is no longer recommended due to safety concerns). Its mechanism of action involves disruption of microbial cell membranes and enzyme systems through the interaction of mercury ions with thiol groups in proteins. Due to concerns about mercury toxicity—including ocular pigmentation changes after long-term use—its application has become limited[1][3][4][5][7].

Other names

phenylmercuric nitratenitric acid mercury phenylphenyl mercury nitratephenylmercuric nitrate basic