Which antidote is used for iron toxicity?

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Defroxamine is the appropriate antidote for iron toxicity because it acts as a chelating agent specifically targeting iron. When administered, defroxamine binds to excess free iron in the bloodstream, forming a stable complex that enhances urinary excretion of iron and helps prevent further tissue damage caused by iron overload. This is particularly important as iron is a pro-oxidant that can cause significant oxidative stress and damage to organs such as the liver, heart, and pancreas if left unbound in the body.

In the context of iron toxicity, other substances listed do not effectively address the condition. Bicarb is not utilized for iron toxicity; it is used primarily to address metabolic acidosis. Pyridoxine, or vitamin B6, is utilized in cases of certain toxicities such as isoniazid overdose, but it does not mitigate iron toxicity. IV ethanol is primarily used in the management of methanol and ethylene glycol poisoning rather than for iron, making defroxamine the specific and effective choice for this type of toxicity.

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