What is Sodium dichloroacetate and how is it used?

Sodium dichloroacetate, also known as Sodium dichloroacetate in English, is a white solid powder at room temperature and pressure. It has a certain alkalinity and strong hygroscopicity, good solubility in water, and is soluble in alcohol and other organic solvents. Sodium dichloroacetate is a medicinal ingredient commonly used in the treatment of lactic acidosis (LA) and other diseases, which can be administered intravenously or orally.

图1  Sodium dichloroacetate characteristics

Basic Information

Sodium dichloroacetate is a pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK) inhibitor with potent anti-leukemia activity. It is a metabolic regulator in cancer cell mitochondria with anticancer activity. This substance can inhibit pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDHK), leading to a reduction in lactate in the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, it can increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and promote cancer cell apoptosis, and also acts as an NKCC inhibitor.

Uses

Sodium dichloroacetate can be used as an inorganic chemical base chemical substance, it can be used as an organic salt precursor for synthesizing microporous carbon, which can be used to develop carbon-based adsorbents. This substance can also be used as a sodium carboxylate in the field of chemical synthesis. Furthermore, Sodium dichloroacetate has been used as a drug for treating congenital mitochondrial diseases, with research by Peter Stacpoole and his colleagues proving that when used to treat congenital mitochondrial diseases, Sodium dichloroacetate does not cause any, mild, or moderate side effects.

Instructions for Use

If the patient is currently using cannabinoids, benzodiazepines, opioids, or other drugs that affect the central nervous system, remember that DCA may amplify the adverse effects caused by these drugs (such as delirium, memory problems). If the prescription has already caused side effects, this situation is more likely to occur. Dichloroacetic acid seems to have a positive effect on heart function without increasing the additional demand for oxygen. It also improves the efficiency of energy production in the myocardium. The drug can be safely used in individuals with heart failure and increased risk of myocardial ischemia. Diabetic patients can achieve better blood sugar control with the help of Sodium dichloroacetate, which appears to lower blood sugar levels between meals.

References

[1] Zhu Mingzhen, et al. Modern Medicine & Health, 2014, 30(3):4.