BAL is used against which metal poisoning?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

ISRO Pharmacist Previous Year Question paper 2021

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Mercury

Rationale:

British Anti-Lewisite (BAL), also known as Dimercaprol, is a chelating agent used in the treatment of heavy metal poisoning. It works by binding to the metal ions, forming a complex that can be excreted from the body, thereby reducing the toxicity.
BAL is particularly effective against mercury poisoning. Mercury can cause severe damage to the kidneys, nervous system, and other organs. BAL helps in reducing these toxic effects by facilitating the excretion of mercury.

Explanation of Other Options:

Copper

Rationale: Copper poisoning is usually treated with chelating agents like Penicillamine or Trientine, not BAL. These agents are more effective in binding copper and facilitating its excretion.

Cyanide

Rationale: Cyanide poisoning is treated with agents like Hydroxocobalamin or Sodium Thiosulfate, which work by converting cyanide into less toxic compounds that can be excreted. BAL is not used for cyanide poisoning.

Iron

Rationale: Iron poisoning is treated with chelating agents like Deferoxamine, which binds to iron and allows it to be excreted. BAL is not effective for iron poisoning.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, BAL is specifically used for the treatment of mercury poisoning. It is not effective for copper, cyanide, or iron poisoning, for which other specific chelating agents are used.