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- Title
IV-Acetyl-L-Cysteine as Prophylaxis against Sulfur Mustard.
- Authors
Bobb, Andrew J.; Arfsten, Darryl P.; Jederberg, Warren W.
- Abstract
Sulfur mustard (HD) is a blister agent targeting the eyes, respiratory system, skin, and possibly other organs. Extensive exposure can destroy the immune system by destruction of bone marrow cells. There is no antidote for HD or effective treatment other than rapid decontamination. Clinical trials have demonstrated activity for N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC| against a number of significant human pathologies involving free radicals, and animal and tissue studies have suggested efficacy for NAC as a chemoprotectant against many toxic chemicals. Among these are studies demonstrating that NAC significantly reduces the effects of HD and HD simulants, both in cultured cells and animals. Given the historical effectiveness of HD, the lack of any effective treatment, the demonstrated chemoprotec-tive properties of NAC, its low toxicity, the lack of regulatory controls, and the data supporting efficacy against HD effects, we suggest daily oral administration of the maximum safe dose of NAC to personnel entering combat zones.
- Subjects
CHEMICAL weapons; HAZARDOUS substances; CHEMOPREVENTION; PHARMACOLOGY; MILITARY weapons
- Publication
Military Medicine, 2005, Vol 170, Issue 1, p52
- ISSN
0026-4075
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.7205/MILMED.170.1.52