Gold

International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives: 175

Food additives Europe numbers: E175 

Gold (atomic element Au) has a fascinating history in medicine, with both traditional uses and some modern applications. However, it's important to understand the distinction between its historical use and its current role in medicine.

Historically:

• Limited Effectiveness: For centuries, gold was used in various cultures to treat a wide range of ailments, often based on its symbolic association with wealth and purity rather than proven medical science [1].
• Tuberculosis: In the early 20th century, gold compounds were believed to be a potential treatment for tuberculosis, but this theory was eventually disproven [2].

Modern Medical Uses:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Currently, gold salts, specifically sodium aurothiomalate and auranofin, are used in some cases to treat rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints [2, 3]. However, their use has declined somewhat due to the availability of other effective medications with potentially fewer side effects [4].
• Radioisotopes: Gold-198, a radioactive isotope of gold, is used in some specialized procedures to treat certain types of cancer, such as prostate cancer [5]. It works by delivering targeted radiation to destroy cancer cells.

Important Considerations:

• Limited Applications: Gold's use in modern medicine is quite limited compared to other elements. It's primarily used for specific conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and in some cancer treatments.
• Side Effects: Gold medications can have side effects, including skin rash, kidney damage, and bone marrow suppression. They are typically reserved for patients who don't respond well to other treatments [3].

Overall:

Gold is not a common medicinal substance in modern medicine. While some specific gold compounds have a role in treating rheumatoid arthritis and certain cancers, their use is limited due to the availability of other effective medications and potential side effects.