Dimercaprol chelates which metals?

Study for the Toxicology E3R Exam. Use comprehensive flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with explanations. Prepare thoroughly and excel in your test!

Multiple Choice

Dimercaprol chelates which metals?

Explanation:
Dimercaprol works by using its two sulfhydryl (-SH) groups to bind metals, forming stable metal–thiol chelates that are easier to excrete. This affinity is strongest for certain heavy metals, notably lead and mercury, which is why dimercaprol is used for poisoning with those metals. While it can also chelate arsenic, its effectiveness for other metals like iron, copper, zinc, aluminum, or nickel is limited, so those are typically treated with different chelators.

Dimercaprol works by using its two sulfhydryl (-SH) groups to bind metals, forming stable metal–thiol chelates that are easier to excrete. This affinity is strongest for certain heavy metals, notably lead and mercury, which is why dimercaprol is used for poisoning with those metals. While it can also chelate arsenic, its effectiveness for other metals like iron, copper, zinc, aluminum, or nickel is limited, so those are typically treated with different chelators.

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