Mercury (element) Senate passed legislation to phase out the sale of non-prescription mercury thermometers. In 2003, Washington and Maine became the first states to ban mercury blood pressure devices. Mercury compounds are found in some over-the-counter drugs, including topical antiseptics, stimulant laxatives, diaper-rash ointment, eye drops, and nasal sprays. The FDA has "inadequate data to establish general recognition of the safety and effectiveness" of the mercury ingredients in these products. Mercury is still used in some diuretics although substitutes now exist for most therapeutic uses. Chlorine is produced from sodium chloride (common salt, NaCl) using electrolysis to separate the metallic sodium from
Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies clinicians or health care institutions to become certified prior to prescribing. 12% include only a "communication plan" REMS element which is informational in nature. These communication plans are typically composed of letters, websites, and fact sheets describing the specific safety risks identified in the REMS. 26% include only the "medication guide" REMS element. Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies is a program of the US Food and Drug Administration for the monitoring of medications with a high potential for serious adverse effects. REMS applies only to specific prescription drugs, but can apply to brand name or