Copper and Its Compounds (Copper Sulfate)

Copper and its compounds (copper sulfate)

Copper is a metal that is widely used in the production of various materials, including wires, pipes, coins and other products. However, copper and its compounds can also be poisonous, especially copper sulfate.

Copper sulfate is a copper salt that is used as an antifungal and antiseptic. However, if ingested, copper sulfate can cause serious health problems.

Local cauterizing, hematotoxic (hemolytic), nephro-, hepatotoxic effects of copper sulfate can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, frequent bowel movements, weakness, dizziness, headache, tachycardia, exotoxin shock. With severe hemolysis (hemoglobin in the urine), acute renal failure (anuria, uremia) may develop. Toxic hepatopathy, hemolytic jaundice and anemia can also be caused by copper sulfate.

If highly dispersed copper (zinc, chromium) dust gets into the upper respiratory tract during welding of non-ferrous metals, acute foundry fever may occur, which is manifested by chills, dry cough, headache, weakness, shortness of breath and persistent fever.

An allergic reaction to copper sulfate is also possible, which manifests itself in the form of a red rash on the skin and itching. The lethal dose of copper sulfate is 30-50 ml.

In case of copper sulfate poisoning, you should immediately consult a doctor. Treatment may include gastric lavage through a tube, early hemodialysis and forced diuresis. In addition, drugs can be used, such as Uni-thiol (10 ml of a 5% solution at once, then 5 ml every 3 hours intramuscularly for 2-3 days), sodium thiosulfate (100 ml of a 30% solution intravenously) , morphine (1 ml of 1% solution) and atropine (1 ml of 0.1% solution) subcutaneously, aminazine (1 ml of 2.5% solution) intramuscularly for frequent vomiting.

Treatment of acute renal failure and toxic hepatopathy may include sodium bicarbonate (100 ml of 4% IV solution), antibiotics and vitamin therapy. For foundry fever, acetylsalicylic acid and codeine can be used. For an allergic rash, a 1% solution of diphenhydramine 1 ml s.c. can be used.

In addition to copper sulfate, copper and its compounds can be hazardous to health if used improperly or if ingested. Therefore, it is necessary to take precautions when working with copper and copper products, and also consult a doctor if any symptoms of copper poisoning appear.

Overall, copper is an important material in industry and has many beneficial properties, but you need to be aware of its potential health hazards and take appropriate precautions.