Diphoterine
Diphoterine is a decontamination solution used in first aid for the emergency treatment of chemical spills to the eyes and body.
Mechanism of action[]
Diphoterine contains an amphoteric, chelating molecule: a substance which is capable of reacting with both acids and alkalis when applied to either type of chemical spill, stopping the aggressive action of a corrosive or irritant chemical, halting the reaction with the body.
However, it is not fully effective at halting the body's reaction with hydrofluoric acid. This is because hydrofluoric acid is poisonous as well as corrosive. Treatment with either or calcium gluconate is required to deal with hydrofluoric acid contamination.
Like all of the emergency treatments, Diphoterine is not a substitute for professional medical attention, so immediate attention from emergency medical personnel should always be sought, especially if the chemical spill was to the eye.
Effectiveness[]
The efficacy of Diphoterine is controversial. It has been shown to be effective in a two-year study on humans[1] and also in a study on animals,[2] but its effectiveness as compared to use of water alone, and therefore its necessity, has been questioned by medical experts.[3][4]
See also[]
References[]
- ^ Zack-Williams, S. D., Ahmad, Z., & Moiemen, N. S. (2015). The clinical efficacy of Diphoterine® in the management of cutaneous chemical burns: a 2-year evaluation study. Annals of burns and fire disasters, 28(1), 9–12.
- ^ A prospective, randomized, blind comparison between saline, calcium gluconate and diphoterin for washing skin acid injuries in rats: effects on substance P and β-endorphin release
- ^ HTIS Canada: Diphoterine for Chemical Burns: Clinical Effectiveness and Guidelines
- ^ Brûlures chimiques en milieu de travail : évaluation du risque et prise en charge. Lyon, 2009
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