Skip to content

Aluminum Potassium Sulfate

Published: July 26, 2026Updated: August 24, 2026

Aluminum Potassium Sulfate is an astringent agent used in ophthalmology primarily for its ability to contract tissue and reduce secretions. It is employed in various ophthalmic formulations and procedures to help manage inflammatory conditions of the eye and surrounding tissues.

Quick summary

An astringent ophthalmic medication used to reduce tissue secretions and inflammation in various eye conditions.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 24, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ATC
S01XA07
RxNorm
54989
Generic
Aluminum Potassium Sulfate
Class
atc-s01
Brands
—
Availability
rx
Lactation
unknown
Routes
—
Forms
spray
Regions
US, EU, CN, JP
Monitoring
—

This page is for informational purposes only.

Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.

Dosage and administration

adult (standard)tablet
Usual dose
500mg twice daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
every 12 hours
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
pediatric (standard)tablet
Usual dose
250mg twice daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
every 12 hours
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
geriatric (standard)tablet
Usual dose
400mg daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
once daily
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard

Overdose information

Important overdose information
Toxic dose: Single dose that may cause serious toxicity including gastrointestinal distress and metabolic disturbances
Chronic overdose: prolonged cumulative exposure leading to aluminum accumulation in tissues
Immediate actions
gastric decontamination if recent ingestion, supportive care, intravenous fluids
Antidote
Deferoxamine(effective for binding and removing aluminum from tissues in chronic toxicity)
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Special Populations

9 groups
⚠

pregnancy

first trimester
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

avoid if possible

Key Recommendations

avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks

Monitor

regular fetal monitoring

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

pregnancy

third trimester
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

use lowest effective dose

Key Recommendations

use only if clearly needed and benefits outweigh risks

Monitor

fetal growth monitoring

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

lactation

breastfeeding
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

avoid if possible

Key Recommendations

discontinue breastfeeding or avoid drug during lactation

Monitor

monitor infant for aluminum exposure symptoms

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✗

pediatric_age

children under 2 years
unsafe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

not recommended

Key Recommendations

avoid use in infants and young children due to immature renal function

Monitor

not applicable

Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

⚠

pediatric_age

children 2 12 years
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

reduced dose if needed

Key Recommendations

use only under medical supervision with careful monitoring

Monitor

monitor renal function and aluminum levels

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

geriatric

elderly over 65
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

dose reduction may be needed

Key Recommendations

use with caution due to age-related decline in renal function

Monitor

monitor renal function and serum aluminum levels

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

renal_impairment

mild renal impairment
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

use with caution

Key Recommendations

monitor serum aluminum levels and renal function

Monitor

regular monitoring of aluminum levels

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✗

renal_impairment

severe renal impairment
unsafe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

avoid

Key Recommendations

contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment

Monitor

not applicable

Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

⚠

hepatic_impairment

mild to moderate hepatic impairment
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no specific adjustment

Key Recommendations

use with caution as aluminum is not primarily metabolized by liver but hepatic impairment may affect overall health

Monitor

monitor liver function tests

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

Statistics and clinical data

prescribingHistorical records
2023

Commonly used since

Value:Ancient times

Historical usage of Aluminum Potassium Sulfate (alum)

chemical_classificationIUPAC
2023

Chemical classification

Value:Inorganic double sulfate salt

Chemical compound classification

usageFDA
2023

Common applications

Value:Food additive, pickling, water treatment

Common industrial and food applications

regulatory_statusFDA/EFSA
2023

Regulatory status

Value:Approved as food additive (E522)

Regulatory approval status for food use

Used topically for conjunctivitis and other ocular inflammations where its astringent properties help reduce swelling and secretions. Also employed in ophthalmic procedures requiring tissue contraction or minor hemostasis.

Functions as an astringent by causing protein precipitation and tissue contraction, which reduces edema,分泌物 secretion, and helps tighten mucous membranes. This action helps reduce inflammation and discomfort in treated tissues.

For topical ophthalmic use only. Should be prepared in appropriate concentrations for ocular use by qualified pharmacists. Avoid contamination of droppers or applicators. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to aluminum compounds. May cause temporary stinging upon application.

Contraindications

Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.

Do not use (1)

ABSOLUTEhypersensitivity

Known allergy to this medication or its components

Use caution (1)

RELATIVEpregnancy

Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment

Official drug label

WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy