Several detoxifying agents are frequently used in clinical toxicology:
- Activated Charcoal: Often used in the initial treatment of many types of oral poisonings, it works by adsorbing toxins in the gastrointestinal tract.
- N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): Used in acetaminophen overdose, NAC acts as a precursor to glutathione, aiding in the detoxification of harmful metabolites.
- EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid): A chelating agent used to treat lead poisoning. It binds to lead, facilitating its excretion.
- Atropine: Used in organophosphate poisoning, it counteracts the effects of excessive acetylcholine due to nerve agent exposure.
- Naloxone: An opioid antagonist that reverses the effects of opioid overdose, restoring normal respiration.
