today, the use of mercury in medicine has greatly declined in all respects, especially in developed countries. thermometers and blood pressure devices using mercury were invented in the early 18th and late 19th centuries, respectively. now their use is declining and has been banned in some countries, states and medical institutions. in 2002, the u.s. senate passed legislation to phase out the sale of non-prescription mercury thermometers. in 2003, washington and maine became the first states to ban mercury blood pressure devices. mercury compounds are in some over-the-counter drugs, including topical antiseptics, stimulant laxatives, diaper rash ointment, eye drops, and nasal sprays. the fda has “inadequate data to establish general recognition of the safety and effectiveness” of the mercury in these products. mercury is still used in some diuretics, although other things can be used for most therapeutic uses.