Ferric sulfate

Ferric sulfate has the molecular formula of Fe2SO4, and it is a dark brown or yellow chemical agent with acidic properties. It is produced by the reaction of sulfuric acid and an oxidizing agent. It is used in different fields such as dermatology, dentistry and it is thought to present hemostatic properties by interacting chemically with blood proteins. By the FDA, ferric sulfate is a direct food substance affirmed in the GRAS category (Generally Recognized As Safe).

Ferric sulfate was first used in dermatology as part of the Monsel's solution. This solution is an antihemorrhagic agent used in skin and mucosal biopsies. The use of ferric sulfate in dermatology is under review as ferric sulfate is corrosive and injurious and it can cause degenerative changes that are not observed with other alternatives like collagen.

Ferric sulfate is also used as a coagulative and hemostatic agent. It is a mechanic hemostatic agent used directly on the damaged tissue.

In dentistry, ferric sulfate is used as a pulpotomy medicament to control pulpal bleeding, as an antibacterial agent and as a hemostatic reagent for restorative dentistry, for postextraction hemorrhage and for periradicular and endodontic surgery.