Antidotes

Introduction

An antidote is a substance which can counteract a form of poisoning.

OR

* A substance used to treat poisoning which has a specific action depending on poison.

Types of antidotes: Chemical antidotes

It neutralizes the poison by changing the chemical nature of poison e.g., dimercaprol

Mechanical antidotes

It prevents the absorption of poison e.g., activated charcoal

Physiological antidote

It counteracts the effect of poison by producing opposite physiological effects e.g., naloxone