Magnesium diamide is used as a chemical intermediate. Magnesium diamide is spontaneously combustible. It is toxic by inhalation. Skin or eye contact may cause severe burns.

Burow invented an astringent antiseptic solution of aluminium acetate in water to relieve the itching and inflammation of minor skin irritations. At present the oflicial U. S. P. procedure to made Burow's solution involves the reaction of aluminum sulfate, calcium carbonate and acetic acid to form aluminum sub-acetate, also termed basic aluminum acetate. The solution is available as an over-the-counter drug for topical administration, with brand names including Domeboro. Burow's solution has been shown to be effective against chronic suppurative otitis media and otitis externa. It is active against bacteria resulting in damage to the cell wall.