Inorganic compounds play a vital role in medicine due to their diverse chemical properties. Here’s a simple breakdown of how they are used:
- Metal-based drugs
- Platinum compounds (like cisplatin) are used in cancer treatment to stop the growth of tumor cells.
- Gold compounds are used in treating rheumatoid arthritis.
- Antimicrobial agents
- Silver compounds are used in wound dressings and ointments because they kill bacteria.
- Mercury and arsenic compounds (in small, controlled doses) were historically used to treat infections.
- Imaging and diagnostics
- Iodine compounds are used as contrast agents in X-rays and CT scans.
- Technetium-99m, a radioactive inorganic compound, is used in nuclear medicine scans.
- Electrolytes and mineral supplements
- Calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron salts are used to correct deficiencies and maintain body function.
- Antacids and gastrointestinal treatments
- Aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide are used to neutralize stomach acid.
- Oxygen therapy and respiratory support
- Nitric oxide is used to treat respiratory failure in newborns.
- Other therapeutic roles
- Lithium salts are used to treat bipolar disorder.
- Bismuth compounds are used in stomach and digestive treatments.
In short, inorganic compounds are used in treatment, diagnostics, supplements, and antimicrobial applications, making them essential in modern medicine.