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Brand: Trisenox
Arsenic is a chemical element and a metalloid. In its inorganic forms, arsenic is highly toxic. However, one specific inorganic form, arsenic trioxide, has found use in medicine, particularly in the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). It's classified as an antineoplastic agent and induces apoptosis in APL cells. Other arsenic compounds have historically been used as pesticides and wood preservatives, but these applications are now largely discontinued due to toxicity concerns.
Treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Historically used as a pesticide and wood preservative (now largely discontinued).
Arsenic trioxide can cause serious heart rhythm problems, including a potentially fatal arrhythmia known as QT prolongation. Patients should be monitored for these heart problems. It can also cause hyperleukocytosis (an increase in white blood cells) and differentiation syndrome, both requiring specific management.
Outcome:
Increased risk of differentiation syndrome.
Mechanism:
Synergistic effect on cell differentiation.
Outcome:
Reduced arsenic absorption.
Mechanism:
Competition for absorption in the gut.
Outcome:
May affect arsenic absorption.
Mechanism:
Variable effects depending on food composition.
Most likely new formulation: Liposomal encapsulation for improved delivery and reduced toxicity (2028, 30% confidence)
Based on current usage trends and clinical trial activity, there is a low probability (5%) of a significant change in regulatory status for arsenic trioxide in the next 5 years.
Antineoplastic, Metalloid
Metalloid