Cysteamine hydrochloride

Cysteamine hydrochloride (CAS 156-57-0), also sold as mercaptamine hydrochloride or cysteamine HCl, is a stable salt form of the aminothiol cysteamine used across pharmaceutical, agricultural, and industrial processing applications. Its thiol and amine functional groups make it a reactive intermediate and active agent in synthesis, formulation, and surface treatment processes. In pharmaceuticals, it serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of active ingredients.

It is the basis for cystinosis treatment formulations, making it a high-value procurement target for API manufacturers. Textile and leather processors use it as a reducing agent in wool and hair fiber treatments. This enables controlled disulfide bond cleavage for permanent waving, softening, and depilation products. In agriculture and animal feed, it functions as a growth-promoting additive and antioxidant stabilizer in premix formulations.

Food manufacturers source it as a flavoring agent and dough conditioner, where its reducing action on gluten disulfide bonds improves dough extensibility in baked goods. It is supplied as a white crystalline powder. Standard commercial grades include pharmaceutical-grade material meeting USP and BP specifications, as well as technical-grade product for industrial and agricultural use.

Packaging typically ranges from kilogram quantities up to bulk drum supply depending on application requirements. This ensures flexibility for both small-scale laboratory use and large-scale industrial manufacturing.