[4] Sodium arsenite is amorphous, typically being obtained as a powder or as a glassy mass.

Along with its known carcinogenic and teratogenic effects, contact with the substance can yield symptoms such as skin irritation, burns, itching, thickened skin, rash, loss of pigment, poor appetite, a metallic or garlic taste, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, decreased blood pressure, and headache.

Severe acute poisoning may lead to nervous system damage resulting in weakness, poor coordination, or “pins and needles” sensations, eventual paralysis, and death.

[5][6] Sodium arsenites are primarily used as a pesticide, but has other uses such as hide preservative, antiseptic, dyeing, and soaps.

[7] Sodium arsenite is an appropriate chemical stressor to induce the production of heat shock proteins,[8] and the formation of cytoplasmic stress granules.