Sodium Thiosulphate

Sodium thiosulfate, also spelled sodium thiosulphate, is a versatile compound with several medical applications. Here's a breakdown of its key uses:

1. Antidote for Cyanide Poisoning:

• This is the most well-known use of sodium thiosulfate. In cases of cyanide poisoning, it acts as an antidote [1, 2].
• Cyanide disrupts cellular respiration, preventing cells from using oxygen. Sodium thiosulfate helps the body eliminate cyanide by converting it to a less harmful substance called thiocyanate, which can then be excreted through urine [2].
• However, it's important to note that sodium thiosulfate is usually administered after another medication, sodium nitrite, in a cyanide poisoning treatment protocol [2].

2. Reducing Side Effects from Cisplatin Chemotherapy:

• Cisplatin is a chemotherapy drug used to treat various cancers. A major side effect of cisplatin is hearing loss (ototoxicity) [3].
• Sodium thiosulfate, under the brand name Pedmark, has been approved by the FDA to help reduce the risk of cisplatin-induced hearing loss in children undergoing cancer treatment [3].

3. Other Potential Uses:

• Sodium thiosulfate has been investigated for its potential role in treating other conditions like fungal skin infections (pityriasis versicolor) and a rare skin condition called calciphylaxis [4, 5].
• Research is also ongoing to explore its use in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's due to its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties [6].

Administration and Side Effects:

• Sodium thiosulfate is typically administered intravenously (injected into a vein) in a hospital setting for most medical uses [1].
• Side effects can include vomiting, joint pain, mood changes, psychosis, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears) but the safety profile is generally good [2].