Thallium sulfate

Definition

ChEBI: Thallium sulfate is a metal sulfate in which the counterion is thallium and the ratio of thallium to sulfate is 2:1. It is a rodenticide used to control rats, squirrels, mice, moles, prairie dogs, ants and cockroaches. It is no longer registered for pesticide use in the United States. It has a role as a rodenticide and an insecticide. It is a thallium molecular entity and a metal sulfate. It contains a thallium(1+) and a sulfate.

Safety Profile

Poison to humans by ingestion. Experimental poison by ingestion, intravenous, and subcutaneous routes. Human systemic effects: cardiomyopathy, diarrhea, effects on recordings from peripheral motor nerve, hair changes, hypermotility, nausea or vomiting. Its main hazard is due to its accumulation, especially in liver, brain, and skeletal muscle; readily absorbed by gastrointestinal tract and skin. A cellular toxicant like arsenic. Fatal human dose is about 500 mg of thallium. Intake of thahum causes depilation. Many reported fatalities. An experimental teratogen. When heated to decomposition it emits very toxic fumes of SOx and T1. Pesticide for control of rats, moles, and house mice. See also THALLIUM COMPOUNDS and SULFATES .