Acetarsol

Acetarsol is a chemical compound used in the treatment of various medical conditions. It is an organometallic compound that contains arsenic, and is used primarily as an antiprotozoal agent and antiseptic.

History

Acetarsol was first synthesized in the early 20th century. It was initially used as an antiseptic, but its use has since expanded to include the treatment of a variety of parasitic infections.

Medical uses

Acetarsol is used in the treatment of amebiasis, a parasitic infection of the intestines caused by the protozoan Entamoeba histolytica. It is also used to treat trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis.

In addition to its antiprotozoal properties, Acetarsol is also used as an antiseptic in the treatment of chronic ulcerative colitis, a long-term condition characterized by inflammation of the colon and rectum.

Pharmacology

Acetarsol works by inhibiting the growth of protozoa, the organisms that cause amebiasis and trichomoniasis. It does this by interfering with their metabolic processes, specifically the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is essential for their survival.

Side effects

Like all medications, Acetarsol can cause side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as neutropenia, a condition characterized by low levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell.

See also

• Antiprotozoal agent
• Antiseptic
• Amebiasis
• Trichomoniasis
• Chronic ulcerative colitis