Pharmaceutical Applications
In 1930, the oxidised compound Oxophenarsine,
containing an As＝O unit, was identified as the active ingredient and was later marketed under the trade
name Mapharsen. Mapharsen was used until the 1940s when it was replaced by Penicillin. Mapharsen was
actually synthesised in Ehrlich’s laboratory as compound number 5, but it was believed to be too toxic for
any clinical application .
Generally, the use of arsenic-based drugs has ceased, especially as a result of the development of Penicillin.
Nevertheless, Melarsoprol and an arsenic-based drug closely related to Atoxyl are licensed to treat sleeping
sickness.
Safety Profile
Poison by ingestion, intravenous,and intraperitoneal routes. Human systemic effects byingestion: stroke, convulsions, and coma. When heated todecomposition it emits very toxic fumes of As, NOx, andHCl. An antirickettsial and antitrypanosomal agent.
