Magnesium sulfate also known as sulfur salt, bitter salt or Epsom salt is a crystalline compound with a white weatherable appearance and has no smell. It is deliquescent and soluble in water, alcohol, ether and glycerin but insoluble in acetone. It is used as a magnesium salt in agriculture, in food industry as an acidifier, for manufacture of veterinary drugs and laxatives, for feed additive and fertilizers.
Anhydrous magnesium sulfate is commonly used as a desiccant in organic synthesis due to its affinity for water and compatibility with most organic compounds. During work-up, an organic phase is saturated with magnesium sulfate until it no longer forms clumps, and the hydrated salt is then removed by filtration or decantation. Other inorganic sulfate salts, such as sodium sulfate and calcium sulfate, can be used in the same manner.
In humans, magnesium sulfate has been used as an anticonvulsant, cathartic, and electrolyte replenisher in the treatment of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia. It causes direct inhibition of action potentials in myometrial muscle cells, thereby uncoupling excitation and contraction, which decreases the frequency and force of uterine contractions. It has also been used as a treatment for various dysrhythmias, including torsades de pointes and dyrhythmias secondary to TCA overdose or digitalis toxicity.
American Elements produces anhydrous magnesium sulfate to many standard grades when applicable, including Mil Spec (military grade), ACS, Reagent and Pharmaceutical Grade, Food, Agricultural and Pharmaceutical Grade, USP and EP/BP (European Pharmacopoeia/British Pharmacopoeia). All material is manufactured under ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems and is produced to comply with applicable environmental regulations.