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Sodium Thiosulfate

Antidote · Antidote for cyanide poisoning

AntidoteAntidote for cyanide poisoning
CDSCO approved
EXCRETION
not curated
INTERACTIONS
none in our sources
PREGNANCY
not curated

Mechanism

Sodium thiosulfate acts as a sulfur donor substrate for the mitochondrial enzyme rhodanese (thiosulfate sulfurtransferase), which converts highly toxic cyanide (CN⁻) to the relatively non-toxic thiocyanate (SCN⁻) that is excreted renally. This enzymatic detoxification pathway is the body's primary defense against cyanide poisoning, and exogenous thiosulfate administration accelerates the reaction beyond physiological capacity. It is also used to prevent cisplatin nephrotoxicity by binding to and inactivating cisplatin in the renal tubules.

Indications

Poisoning with cyanidesPityriasis versicolor (active against Malassezia furfur)

Dosing

Adult
12.5 g by intravenous injection over 10 minutes; dose may be repeated in severe cyanide poisoning. (12.5 g equates to 50 mL of a 25% solution or 25 mL of a 50% solution).
Pediatric
Child: Consult the National Poisons Information Service

Contraindications

  • Other superficial mycosis

Related guidelines

Other Antidote drugs

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Sources: KD Tripathi 7e, Katzung·Verified: 2026-05-10 · House clinical team