Calcium Gluconate Gel for Hydrofluoric Acid Burns

HF Antidote Gel, also known as calcium gluconate topical gel, is used in the treatment of skin burns caused by hydrofluoric acid (HF). It should be kept close to hand whenever you are working with hydrofluoric acid.

All HF burns require a full medical evaluation, whether treated with gel or not. Calcium gluconate gel is intended as an immediate topical treatment at the burn site while medical assessment is arranged.

How calcium gluconate gel works

Calcium gluconate gel works by combining with hydrofluoric acid to help neutralise the powerful fluoride ion. Immediate application to the burn site reduces burn damage to bone and deep tissue.

Its major action is to provide excess or substitute calcium stores by combining with HF to generate insoluble calcium fluoride. This helps prevent fluoride ions extracting calcium from bones and tissues following the burn. Removal of calcium from blood and tissue by fluoride ion attack can result in a serious, frequently life-threatening condition known as hypocalcaemia.

Application note

• Wear vinyl or nitrile medical gloves when applying calcium gluconate gel.
• Seek full medical evaluation for every HF burn, even if the gel has been applied.
• Product image is for illustration purposes; brand may vary.