INFLUENCES OF THIAMINE AND/OR ASCORBIC ACID ON LEAD INTOXICATION

Abstract

The effects of thiamine, ascorbic acid ami their combination an workers who are continuously exposal to lead has been investigated. In this study 60 persons in a Battery industry was selected and divided into four equal groups. Group I received placebo, group II thiamine (300 mg), group III ascorbic acid (250 mg) anil group IV thiamine (300 mg) plus ascorbic acid (250 mg) three times a day (Orally). At beginning of the study and after one month of above drug regimen; blood, urine and a questionnaire about their clinical signs were examined. 'there were no significant differences between blood anil urine lead level in all groups after treatment. Zinc protoporphyrin (zpp) level showed a significant reduction in ascorbic acid treated group (group III) as compared to pretreatment. Clinical manifestation improved in the group that received both vitamins (group IV). However, from a clinical stand point, it appears the usage of these vitamins may have a beneficial effects in lead occupational exposure.