Bioactive Bismuth Compounds: Is Their Toxicity a Barrier to Therapeutic Use?

ABSTRACT: Bismuth compounds are considered relatively non-toxic, with their low solubility in aqueous solutions (e.g., biological fluids) being the major contributing factor to this property. Bismuth derivatives are widely used for the treatment of peptic ulcers, functional dyspepsia, and chronic gastritis. Moreover, the properties of bismuth compounds have also been extensively explored in two main fields of action: antimicrobial and anticancer. Despite the clinical interest of bismuth-based drugs, several side effects have also been reported. In fact, excessive acute ingestion of bismuth, or abuse for an extended period of time, can lead to toxicity. However, evidence has demonstrated that the discontinuation of these compounds usually reverses their toxic effects. Notwithstanding, the continuousl

SUBMITTER: Goncalves A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10855265 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature