sodium metabisulfite

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Action: 

Antioxidant: sodium metabisulfite is used as an antioxidant in the food and beverage industry. It helps prevent the oxidation of certain compounds, preserving the color, flavor, and freshness of products. This action is beneficial in preserving dried fruits, wine, and beer. 

Preservative: It acts as a preservative by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms in food products, such as bacteria and molds. This extends the shelf life of items like canned vegetables and fruits. 

Spectrum: 

Preservation: sodium metabisulfite plays a crucial role in the field of canning and food preservation by effectively extending the shelf life of a wide range of products. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Allergic reactions 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:  

None

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution:  

Allergic Reactions: People with a known sensitivity to sulfites, a group of sulfur-based compounds including sodium metabisulfite, should avoid products containing this chemical. Allergic reactions may include skin rashes, hives, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis. 

Asthma: Individuals who suffer from asthma face an elevated likelihood of experiencing respiratory symptoms when they exposed to sulfites, including sodium metabisulfite. This exposure may trigger asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath. 

Sulfite Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience mild to moderate sensitivity to sulfites, even if they are not officially allergic. When exposed to sodium metabisulfite, these individuals might still experience adverse reactions, such as headaches, nausea, and gastrointestinal discomfort. 

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant or nursing women should use caution when exposed to sodium metabisulfite, as there is limited information on its effects in these populations. Consultation with a healthcare provider is advisable. 

Children: Infants and young children may be more susceptible to the adverse effects of sodium metabisulfite due to their developing systems. It’s essential to be cautious when introducing sulfite products into their diets. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

<b>Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:  

sodium metabisulfite, also known as sodium pyrosulfate with the chemical formula Na2S2O5.  

Pharmacodynamics:  

Antioxidant Properties: sodium metabisulfite is used as a food preservative due to its antioxidant properties. It can help prevent the oxidation of certain compounds in food, thereby extending the shelf life of various products.  

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

sodium metabisulfite can be absorbed through ingestion or inhalation. When ingested, it can undergo chemical reactions in the stomach and be somewhat absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. When inhaled, it can also be absorbed through the respiratory system. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, sodium metabisulfite can be distributed throughout the body. It may be metabolized and excreted by the liver and kidneys, as these are the primary organs responsible for processing and eliminating foreign substances. 

Metabolism 

sodium metabisulfite may undergo some metabolic reactions in the liver, where it can be transformed into various sulfur compounds. However, the exact metabolic pathways still need to be extensively documented for this compound. 

Excretion and Elimination 

sodium metabisulfite and its metabolites are primarily excreted through the urine by the kidneys. The excretion rate and pathways may vary depending on the individual’s health and exposure levels. 

Adminstartion

Administration:  

sodium metabisulfite is a chemical compound primarily used as a food preservative & antioxidant. 

It is important to follow safety precautions when handling and administering sodium metabisulfite. 

Follow the guidelines provided by the relevant food safety regulations in your region. Typically, it is added in small quantities to the food product during processing. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: sodium metabisulfite 

Why do we use sodium metabisulfite?  

It serves as an antioxidant in food and beverage products. It helps prevent the oxidation of certain compounds, thus preserving the color and flavor of various food items.