Open AccessCalcium Carbonate for Elemental Lead Ingestions: Effect of Alkalinization on Elemental Lead Solubility in a Simulated Gastric Environment
Author(s) -
Kartik R. Shah,
Michael Runyon,
Michael C. Beuhler
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
journal of medical toxicology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.534
H-Index - 49
eISSN - 1937-6995
pISSN - 1556-9039
DOI - 10.1007/s13181-020-00811-6
Subject(s) - calcium carbonate , calcium , antacid , solubility , lead (geology) , chemistry , carbonate , absorption (acoustics) , nuclear chemistry , biochemistry , materials science , organic chemistry , geology , geomorphology , composite material
Acute ingestion of elemental lead foreign bodies has resulted in multiple pediatric deaths. Elemental lead is relatively insoluble at alkaline pH. Furthermore, calcium decreases lead absorption by interfering with the lead absorptive receptor. We hypothesize that alkalinization of gastric fluid with an oral calcium-containing agent, such as calcium carbonate, will decrease lead solubility, thus reducing the potential for systemic lead absorption and toxicity.