a light-colored crystalline powder (trade name Merthiolate) used as a surgical antiseptic
A preservative that was used in many vaccines. Thimerosal contains ethylmercury, which some suspect may cause mercury poisoning and autism in children.
A mercury-containing preservative used in some vaccines and other products since the 1930's. No harmful effects were reported from thimerosal at doses used in vaccines, except for minor local reactions like redness and swelling at the injection site. There was specifically no evidence that thimerosal increases the risk of developing autism or any other behavior disorder. However, in 1999 it was agreed that thimerosal should be reduced or eliminated in vaccines as a precautionary measure. Today, all routinely recommended pediatric vaccines in the US contain no thimerosal or only trace amounts.
A preservative that was used in many vaccines. It is suspected that an ingredient in Thimerosal may cause mercury poisoining.
An ingredient that has been used in many vaccines as a preservative since the 1930s. Thimerosal contains a form of mercury known as ethylmercury, which is related to methylmercury - a form of mercury that is highly toxic to unborn children, premature babies, and young children. While there is not much data on the effects of ethylmercury, some experts have concerns that the Thimerosal in vaccines may be harmful to children.