Chloroform, a dangerous chemical compound that used to be used as an anesthetic

KOMPAS.com – Chloroform is a colorless, sweet-smelling, volatile, non-flammable liquid. Historically, this compound was used as an anesthetic. However, its use is currently limited as it has proven to be harmful to humans.

Chloroform is a compound that has the chemical formula CHCl3 or also known as trichloromethane. This liquid is slightly thicker than water. The liquid is soluble in water.

Initially, chloroform was used as a anesthesia inhalation in farm animals and for topical anesthesia when cleaning wounds. Chloroform was used to prepare general anesthetics before World War 2. However, its use in humans and animals has been banned.

Currently, chloroform is used for disinfectant water and activities industry, for example in refrigerators and air conditioners, as a solvent, and in the chemical industry. In addition, chloroform is also released from paper pulp and chlorinated water.

Exposure to chloroform is very dangerous for humans. Launch Centers for Disease Center and Prevention (CDC), chloroform is very toxic by inhalation or ingestion. These compounds can cause irritation to the eyes and skin, as well as damage to the liver, kidneys, and nervous system. Other studies say that this compound also causes heart arrhythmias and cancer.

If inhaled, this dangerous compound can cause respiratory depression, pneumonitis and pulmonary oedema. In addition, inhaling these compounds can also cause people to lose consciousness. Launch PubChem NCBIhigh doses of chloroform can also cause death.

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What to do if exposed to chloroform?

People exposed to chloroform should remove the source of chloroform as soon as possible, including clothing that has been exposed to it should be changed immediately. If high concentrations of chloroform come into contact with the skin and eyes, rinse immediately with clean water and seek medical attention immediately.

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