Difetarsone Sodium
Difetarsone Sodium is an organic arsenical compound historically used as an anti-protozoal agent for the treatment of intestinal amebiasis caused by Entamoeba histolytica. It belongs to a class of arsenic-based antiparasitic drugs that have largely fallen out of common use due to the availability of safer alternatives. This medication was primarily used when other treatments were not available or suitable.
Difetarsone Sodium is an older anti-protozoal medication used to treat intestinal amebiasis, largely replaced by safer modern alternatives.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 402588
- Generic
- Difetarsone Sodium
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of intestinal amebiasis caused by Entamoeba histolytica. Historically used for both acute and chronic forms of the infection, particularly when other anti-amebic agents were contraindicated or unavailable.
As an organoarsenic compound, Difetarsone Sodium acts against intestinal protozoa. The exact mechanism is not fully specified, but like other trivalent organic arsenicals, it interferes with protozoal enzyme systems and metabolic processes necessary for parasite survival.
This medication contains arsenic and carries risks of arsenic-related toxicity. It has largely been replaced by safer treatments like metronidazole. Use requires careful monitoring for adverse effects including gastrointestinal disturbances, skin reactions, and potential neurotoxicity. Not recommended for use in patients with hepatic or renal impairment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy