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Ethidium bromide
(Dromilac, homidium bromide)
CAS 1239-45-8 |
C21H20BrN3 |
Dark red crystals
mp 260 to 262 °C
Soluble in water (5 g/100 mL) |
Odorless solid |
Potent mutagen |
Acute toxic effects from exposure to ethidium bromide have not been thoroughly investigated. Ethidium bromide is irritating to the eyes, skin, mucous membranes, and upper respiratory tract. Although there is no evidence for the carcinogenicity or teratogenicity of this substance in humans, ethidium bromide is strongly mutagenic and therefore should be regarded as a possible carcinogen and reproductive toxin. |
Ethidium bromide does not pose a flammability hazard (NFPA rating = 1). |
No incompatibilities are known. |
Ethidium bromide should be handled in the laboratory using the "basic prudent practices" described in Chapter 5.C. Because of its mutagenicity, stock solutions of this compound should be prepared in a fume hood, and protective gloves should be worn at all times while handling this substance. Operations capable of generating ethidium bromide dust or aerosols of ethidium bromide solutions should be conducted in a fume hood to prevent exposure by inhalation. |
In the event of skin contact, immediately wash with soap and water and remove contaminated clothing. In case of eye contact, promptly wash with copious amounts of water for 15 min (lifting upper and lower lids occasionally) and obtain medical attention. If ethidium bromide is ingested, obtain medical attention immediately. In the event of a spill, mix ethidium bromide with an absorbent material (avoid raising dust), place in an appropriate container, and dispose of properly. Soak up aqueous solutions with a spill pillow or absorbent material. |
Excess ethidium bromide and waste material containing this substance should be placed in an appropriate container, clearly labeled, and handled according to your institution's waste disposal guidelines. |
The information in this LCSS has been compiled by a committee
of the National Research Council from literature sources and Material
Safety Data Sheets and is believed to be accurate as of July 1994.
This summary is intended for use by trained laboratory personnel
in conjunction with the NRC report Prudent
Practices in the Laboratory: Handling and Disposal of Chemicals. This LCSS presents a concise
summary of safety information that should be adequate for most
laboratory uses of the title substance, but in some cases it may
be advisable to consult more comprehensive references. This information
should not be used as a guide to the nonlaboratory use of this
chemical.
Copyright 1995 National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.
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