British anti-lewisite

British anti-Lewisite (also known as BAL) is a compound that was developed by the British during World War II. It was created as an antidote to the chemical warfare agent Lewisite, a vesicant or blister agent. British anti-Lewisite is chemically known as dimercaprol.

History

British anti-Lewisite was developed by the British military during World War II, in response to the use of chemical warfare by the Axis powers. The compound was specifically designed to counteract the effects of Lewisite, a potent vesicant or blister agent that was used extensively during the war.

Chemistry

British anti-Lewisite is a chelating agent, which means it has the ability to bind to and remove certain types of heavy metals from the body. It is chemically known as dimercaprol, and is a colorless liquid with a strong, unpleasant odor.

Medical use

In addition to its original use as an antidote to Lewisite, British anti-Lewisite has also been used in the treatment of conditions caused by the accumulation of heavy metals in the body, such as lead poisoning and mercury poisoning. It works by binding to the heavy metals, forming a compound that can be excreted by the body.

Side effects

Like all medications, British anti-Lewisite can cause side effects. These can include fever, nausea, headache, and a burning sensation in the mouth and throat. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as high blood pressure and rapid heart rate.

See also

• Chemical warfare
• Lewisite
• Lead poisoning
• Mercury poisoning