Carbocisteine AJI 92
 Carbocisteine AJI 92 is a high-purity pharmaceutical-grade amino acid derivative, chemically known as S-carboxymethyl-L-cysteine. It is a white to off-white crystalline powder with a slightly sulfurous odor and is freely soluble in water. Carbocisteine functions primarily as a mucolytic agent—reducing the viscosity of mucus and promoting expectoration in respiratory tract infections. The “AJI 92” specification refers to its compliance with the purity standards established by Ajinomoto’s amino acid quality benchmarks, ensuring it meets stringent pharmaceutical-grade quality control for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). It is widely used in oral syrups, tablets, and granules in both human and veterinary medicine.
Carbocisteine AJI 92 Uses
- Â Primary Uses
Pharmaceuticals
- Mucolytic Agent: Used in the treatment of respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis, COPD, and sinusitis to break down mucus and ease expectoration.
- Formulations: Commonly found in syrups, effervescent tablets, granules, and capsules for both adult and pediatric use.
- Adjunctive Therapy: Sometimes used in combination with antibiotics or bronchodilators for enhanced respiratory support.
- Otolaryngology: Used to manage secretory otitis media and other ENT conditions with mucus overproduction.
Veterinary Medicine
- Employed in veterinary treatments for respiratory diseases in livestock and pets, functioning similarly as a mucolytic.
- Included in oral powders and liquids for animals suffering from bronchopulmonary congestion.
Secondary Uses
Nutritional Supplements
- Occasionally formulated into dietary supplements for individuals with chronic respiratory issues.
Medical Research
- Studied for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in experimental treatments for gastrointestinal and respiratory tract disorders.
Cosmeceuticals (Experimental)
Investigated for potential applications in hair care products due to its sulfur-containing structure related to keratin interaction.
- Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): (2R)-2-Amino-3-[(carboxymethyl)sulfanyl]propanoic acid
- Common/Trade Name: Carbocisteine
- CAS Number: 638-23-3
- HS Code: 2930.90.99
- Molecular Formula: C5H9NO4S
- Molecular Weight: 179.19 g/mol
- Synonyms:
- S-Carboxymethyl-L-cysteine
- L-Carbocisteine
- SCMC
- L-2-Amino-3-carboxymethylthio propionic acid
- Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Crystalline powder
- Color & Odor: White to off-white; faint sulfur-like odor
- Melting Point: ~210–220°C (with decomposition)
- Solubility:
- Freely soluble in water
- Practically insoluble in ethanol and ether
- pH (1% solution): Approx. 2.2 – 3.0
- Optical Rotation: +20.0° to +22.5° (20°C, c=1 in H₂O)
- Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions
- Loss on Drying: ≤ 0.2%
- Purity (AJI 92 Standard): ≥ 98.5% (on dry basis)
- Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 1
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: Not established
- Toxicity: Low acute toxicity; LDâ‚…â‚€ (oral, rat): >2000 mg/kg
- Reactivity: Stable and non-reactive under normal handling
- Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture
- Container Type: Double-lined fiber drums or HDPE containers with desiccant lining
- Shelf Life: Typically 3–5 years when stored properly
- Special Handling: Avoid dust formation; handle in well-ventilated areas
- Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Pharmacopoeial Status:
- Complies with AJI 92 (Ajinomoto amino acid standards)
- Listed in European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.), Japanese Pharmacopoeia (JP), and Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP)
- FDA Status: Approved API in multiple formulations; not available OTC in all markets
- REACH Status: Not classified as hazardous; exempt or pre-registered
- Transportation: Not regulated as hazardous
- Waste Disposal: Dispose according to local, regional, national, and international regulations
- Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Not expected to pose significant risk to aquatic or terrestrial organisms
- Persistence: Biodegradable
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
- Safety Handling Precautions
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Protective gloves
- Safety goggles
- Dust mask or respirator (if handling powder in bulk)
- Lab coat or cleanroom garments
Handling Measures:
- Minimize dust generation
- Use local exhaust ventilation if necessary
- Avoid ingestion and inhalation
Storage Measures:
- Keep tightly sealed
- Protect from light, moisture, and excessive heat
- Use FIFO system
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands before eating or drinking
- Avoid touching eyes or mouth after handling
- Clean work surfaces thoroughly
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water. Get medical advice if irritation develops.
- Eye Contact: Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical help if discomfort continues.
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical attention if large quantity is ingested.
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable but may decompose under heat to release sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, COâ‚‚, dry chemical, or foam
- Special Precautions: Wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
Decomposition Products: CO, COâ‚‚, SOx, NOx