Alpha-Chloralose CAS 15879-93-3

Alpha-Chloralose – Rodenticide, Avicide, and Anesthetic for Research and Veterinary Use

Basic Information

• Product Name: Alpha-Chloralose (α-Chloralose)

• CAS Number: 15879-93-3

• EC Number: 240-016-7

• Molecular Formula: C₈H₁₁Cl₃O₆

• Molecular Weight: 309.52 g/mol

• Appearance: White or almost white powder

• Moisture: ≤1.0%

• Assay: ≥98.0%

• Residue on Ignition: ≤2.0% (by weight)

• Heavy Metals: <10 ppm

• Packaging: 25 kg per fiber drum

• Storage: Store in a dry place, protected from sunlight and heat.

Overview
Alpha-chloralose is a chlorinated derivative of glucose acetaldehyde, belonging to the class of chloralose compounds. It is widely used as a pesticide for controlling bird and rodent populations, particularly effective at temperatures below 15°C for rodent control. In addition to its pesticidal applications, it is extensively used in neuroscience and veterinary medicine as an anesthetic and sedative. In pure form or in combination with urethane, it provides long-lasting but mild anesthesia for experimental animals.

Mechanism of Action
Alpha-chloralose acts as a central nervous system depressant. In small doses, it induces sedation and anesthesia; in larger doses, it causes respiratory depression and death, which is exploited for pest control. Its anesthetic effect is characterized by a prolonged duration with minimal respiratory depression at appropriate doses.

Applications

• Pest control: Used as a rodenticide (effective against mice below 15°C) and avicide (bird repellent or lethal agent).

• Neuroscience research: Widely employed as an anesthetic for laboratory animals (e.g., rats, mice) in electrophysiological and neuroimaging studies due to its minimal impact on cardiovascular and respiratory functions at sedative doses.

• Veterinary medicine: Used as a sedative and anesthetic for small animals in clinical and research settings.

• Chemical synthesis: Occasionally used as a reagent in organic synthesis.

Recommended Use
For anesthesia, typical doses range from 40–80 mg/kg body weight (intraperitoneal) in rodents, depending on the desired depth and duration. For pest control, baits are formulated with appropriate concentrations. Always follow local regulations for pesticide use.

Handling and Storage

• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from light, heat, and incompatible materials (strong oxidizers).

• Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles, protective clothing) when handling.

• Avoid inhalation of dust and contact with skin and eyes.

Safety
Alpha-chloralose is toxic if swallowed or inhaled. It may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and respiratory depression. In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical attention immediately. For detailed safety information, refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity (HPLC), moisture content, heavy metals, and residue on ignition to ensure compliance with quality standards.