ANTIMONY

What is antimony?

Antimony, symbolised by Sb and atomic number 51, is a lustrous grey metalloid that was discovered by the mediaeval alchemist Basil Valentine in the 15th century. It has been used for various purposes throughout history. Antimony finds applications in alloys, flame retardants, batteries, and as a catalyst in chemical reactions.

Antimony compounds have pharmaceutical uses, particularly in the treatment of parasitic infections. While antimony is not highly toxic, prolonged exposure to high levels of antimony compounds can be harmful. Thus, appropriate safety precautions should be taken when working with antimony-containing materials to prevent any potential health risks.

Relationship between antimony and ailments

In a study aimed at examining the relationship between exposure to antimony (Sb) and certain health outcomes in the general population, the researchers employed logistic and Cox regression models to assess the effects of urinary Sb levels (U-Sb). The study evaluated the association between U-Sb levels and the risks of mortality from various causes, as well as self-reported incidences of cancer and heart disease.

The findings indicated that elevated U-Sb levels were not significantly associated with mortality from malignant neoplasms or self-reported cancers. However, higher U-Sb levels were found to be linked to mortality from various causes, as well as an increased risk of cardiac arrest, prevalent congestive heart failure, and heart attack.

Antimony naturally occurs in elements like

Soil, rocks (earth's crust). Antimony is not an abundant element, although it can be found in trace amounts in approximately 100 different mineral species.

About 80% of the world's antimony is produced commercially by China.

Antimony can be present in medicines such as

Antimony compounds have been used in medicine historically, but their use has significantly declined due to their toxicity and the development of safer alternatives. Antimony itself is not typically used directly in medicines today. However, in the past, certain antimony compounds were employed for various medicinal purposes, including:

Antimonial Preparations: Antimonial preparations, such as tartar emetic (potassium antimony tartrate), were once used as emetics (to induce vomiting) and treatments for conditions like schistosomiasis and leishmaniasis. These uses have largely been replaced by safer and more effective treatments.

Antimony-containing Ointments: Antimony-based ointments were historically used to treat skin conditions, although their use has been largely discontinued due to their potential toxicity.

Antimony Potassium Tartrate: Antimony potassium tartrate was sometimes used in the past as a laxative, but it is no longer commonly employed for this purpose.