Sodium Thiosulfate

Generic Details

Generic Name

Sodium Thiosulfate

Other Names

  • Thiosulfuric Acid, Disodium Salt
  • Na2S2O3

Drug Class

  • Antidote

Chemical Formula

Na2S2O3

Molecular Weight

158.11 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Sodium thiosulfate works as an antidote for cyanide poisoning by forming nontoxic thiocyanate through the action of rhodanese enzyme.

Indications

  • Cyanide poisoning treatment
  • Calciphylaxis
  • Photographic processing
  • Chlorine burn treatment

Common Dosage Forms

  • Injection

Typical Dosage

  • 12.5 grams (50 mL of 25% solution) intravenously over 10-20 minutes for cyanide poisoning

Pediatric Dosage

  • As directed by a healthcare provider

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dose adjustments may be required, consult a healthcare provider

Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Headache
  • Sweating
  • Hypersensitivity reactions

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to sodium thiosulfate

Pregnancy Category

  • C - Risk cannot be ruled out

Lactation Safety

  • Compatible - Safe to use during breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

  • No significant drug interactions reported

Overdose Symptoms

  • Hypotension
  • Metabolic acidosis

Antidote for Overdose

  • Supportive care and monitoring

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature (20-25°C)
  • Protect from light

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Well absorbed after intravenous administration
  • Distribution: Distributes widely in the body, including in tissues
  • Metabolism: Metabolized to thiosulfate and sulfite
  • Excretion: Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine

Precautions

  • Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity reactions during administration

Warnings

  • Should be administered under medical supervision for cyanide poisoning

Others

  • Sodium thiosulfate can be used in combination with nitrites in the treatment of cyanide poisoning.