Cupric sulfate phtahydrate
Also known as: Copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate, Cupric sulfate pentahydrate, CuSO₄·5H₂O, CASRN: 7758-99-8
Overview
Copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate is a synthetic inorganic salt of copper, primarily utilized in industrial and agricultural applications. As a source of copper, an essential trace element, it plays a role in various enzymatic processes within the body, including those involving cytochrome c oxidase and superoxide dismutase. However, its use as a direct human supplement is limited, with most research focusing on copper in general rather than this specific sulfate form. Studies on copper sulfate pentahydrate are predominantly preclinical, involving in vitro and animal models. It is characterized by its blue crystalline structure and high solubility in water. While copper is vital for hematopoiesis and connective tissue formation, the efficacy and safety of copper sulfate pentahydrate as a supplement require further investigation compared to other copper formulations.
Benefits
Currently, there is a lack of high-quality human clinical trials demonstrating significant benefits of copper sulfate pentahydrate supplementation. In vitro studies suggest potential antimicrobial effects against multidrug-resistant pathogens, but these findings have not been translated into clinical efficacy. Copper is essential for various physiological processes, including hematopoiesis and connective tissue formation, but these benefits are attributed to copper in general rather than specifically to copper sulfate pentahydrate. There is no evidence to suggest that copper sulfate pentahydrate is superior to other forms of copper, such as copper gluconate or copper citrate, for supplementation purposes. More research is needed to determine the specific benefits and optimal uses of this form of copper.
How it works
Copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate acts as a cofactor for over a dozen metalloenzymes, including dopamine β-hydroxylase and lysyl oxidase, which are crucial for various physiological functions. Its antimicrobial action involves disrupting bacterial membranes through Fenton-like reactions. Intestinal absorption of copper from copper sulfate pentahydrate ranges from 30% to 60%, depending on the dosage, primarily occurring in the duodenum. Once absorbed, copper is distributed throughout the body, primarily bound to ceruloplasmin in the circulation. The bioavailability and specific mechanisms of action of copper from copper sulfate pentahydrate, compared to other copper forms, require further study.
Side effects
The safety profile of copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate indicates potential adverse effects at elevated doses. Animal studies have established a No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) of 64-68 mg/kg/day in rats and 382-494 mg/kg/day in mice. Teratogenic effects, including malformations, have been observed in rodents at doses of 159 mg Cu/kg/day or higher. Organ toxicity, such as liver inflammation and kidney protein droplets, has been noted in rats at concentrations of 1,000 ppm. Human data are limited, but overdose risks are similar to those of general copper toxicity, including gastrointestinal distress and hepatic damage. The tolerable upper intake level for copper from all sources is 10 mg/day for adults. Caution is advised, as studies in pigs have shown hematological changes at 500 ppm (approximately 50 mg/kg). Due to the risk of accumulation from slow biliary excretion, chronic use should be approached with caution.
Dosage
The recommended tolerable upper intake level for copper from all sources is 10 mg/day for adults. Typical supplementation dosages range from 0.9 to 2 mg/day (as copper). Caution is advised, as higher doses have been associated with adverse effects in animal studies. The bioavailability of copper from copper sulfate pentahydrate, compared to organic copper forms, has not been well-studied. It is important to consider that different forms of copper may have varying absorption rates. Due to the potential for toxicity, it is crucial not to exceed the upper limit and to consult with a healthcare professional before starting supplementation. The specific dosage should be tailored to individual needs and health status.
FAQs
Is this form superior to copper chelates?
No, there is currently no evidence to suggest that copper sulfate pentahydrate has enhanced bioavailability or efficacy compared to copper chelates like gluconate or citrate.
Can it replace dietary copper?
It is not recommended to rely on copper sulfate pentahydrate to replace dietary copper. Food sources, such as shellfish and nuts, provide a safer and more balanced intake of copper.
What are the risks of chronic use?
Chronic use of copper sulfate pentahydrate carries a high risk of copper accumulation due to its slow excretion via the biliary route, potentially leading to toxicity.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6717487/ – This in vitro study analyzed the antibacterial activity of copper sulfate against 25 multidrug-resistant clinical isolates. The findings showed that 52% of the isolates were susceptible to copper sulfate at concentrations between 100-200 μg/ml, suggesting potential antimicrobial properties. However, the study lacks human pharmacokinetic data, limiting its direct applicability to human supplementation.
- http://dissemination.echa.europa.eu/Biocides/ActiveSubstances/1276-02/1276-02_Assessment_Report.pdf – This toxicity assessment, conducted according to OECD guidelines, involved animal studies to determine the No Observed Adverse Effect Levels (NOAELs) for copper sulfate. The 90-day feeding trials established NOAELs for organ toxicity in rats and mice. While the study provides valuable safety data, extrapolating these findings to humans involves uncertainty.
- https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.2903/j.efsa.2012.2969 – This EFSA safety evaluation reviewed the use of copper sulfate in animal nutrition applications. The review specified a minimum copper content of 25% in copper sulfate products. The evaluation primarily focused on animal data and excluded human data, limiting its direct relevance to human supplementation.
- https://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/archive/cuso4tech.html – This fact sheet provides technical information on copper sulfate, including its chemical properties and uses. It highlights that copper sulfate is used as a pesticide, fungicide, and herbicide. It also mentions that copper sulfate can be toxic to humans and animals if ingested in large quantities.
- https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/sigald/c7631 – This is a product page for copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate from Sigma-Aldrich. It provides information on the chemical properties, specifications, and safety data for the product. It is primarily intended for laboratory and industrial use.