Potassium alum is considered by the FDA as a generally recognized as safe (GRAS) substance. It is an inorganic salt, also called potassium aluminum sulfate with a formula of AlK(SO4)2... Potassium alum is formed by large, transparent crystals that are used in different products like food or drugs as a buffer, neutralizing or forming agent.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed · 1 reference
The main functions of potassium alum in drugs are as an astringent, antiseptic or adjuvant agent. The astringent action is performed by the induction of coagulation in the superficial tissue layers until the formation of a crust. The formation of alum ions neutralize the charges on plasma proteins, causing the blood to coagulate. Similar effect is observed in disinfectants where these ions react with the free organic acid and thiol groups of proteins on microbes and free proteins, resulting in protein precipitation. This action will generate the contraction of the tissue and dry up secretions. Its adjuvant properties are mainly used in the production of vaccines where the presence of this chemical enhances the immune response.
- Primary indication
- Potassium alum is considered safe by the FDA and its use is in homepathic or OTC products.Curator reviewed
- Formula / weight
- AlKO8S2 · 258.205 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 1977
- Also known as
- Alum, potassium · Aluminium potassium sulfate · Aluminum potassium alum · Aluminum potassium disulfate · Aluminum potassium sulfate
- Code names
- E-522 · INS-522 · INS NO.522
Resolves to
GRLPQNLYRHEGIJ-UHFFFAOYSA-JSMILES[Al+3].[K+].[O-]S([O-])(=O)=O.[O-]S([O-])(=O)=OWhat you can answer from here — as of July 17, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Potassium alum, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
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