What is another word for thimerosal?
Pronunciation: [θa͡ɪmɹˈə͡ʊzə͡l] (IPA) 
Thimerosal is a compound that is often used as a preservative agent in various vaccines. It contains mercury which is used to prevent bacterial and fungal growth in the vaccine solution. However, there are people who are concerned about the safety of thimerosal and its potential mercury toxicity. Therefore, some vaccine manufacturers have switched to using alternative preservatives, including 2-phenoxyethanol, phenol, or formaldehyde. Other synonyms for thimerosal include ethylmercurithiosalicylic acid sodium salt, thiomersal, and merthiolate. Despite some controversy surrounding thimerosal, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that vaccines containing thimerosal are still safe and effective for use.
