朱砂的毒性研究概况

General situation of the study on the toxicity of Cinnabaris

中医药学对朱砂的毒性认识经历了一个从“无毒”至“有毒”的变化过程。长期的中医药学实践不仅使古代医家认识到了朱砂的毒性 ,同时还掌握了朱砂毒性增强的规律 ,并提出了朱砂解毒方法 ,这对朱砂的临床应用提供了安全用药的指导。朱砂的毒性由汞而致 ,不合理的用药方法而导致汞急性大量吸收或汞蓄积中毒是临床不良反应的主要原因。肾脏是汞中毒的主要靶器官 ,不合理的中药配伍或中西药配伍可能会增强朱砂的毒性。

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) experienced a gradual course in recognition of the toxicity of Cinnabaris from 'nontoxic' to 'toxic'. The ancient doctors of TCM understood both the toxic property and the regularity of increasing toxicity of Cinnabaris. In long-term clinical practice they developed the methods of detoxification guiding the safe use of Cinnabaris. The toxicity of Cinnabaris is produced by mercury existed in it. Improper administration leading to an acute absorbtion or chronic accumulation was the main cause of clinical adverse effects. Kidney was the main poisoning target organ. On the other hand, improperly combinative application of Cinnabaris with other drugs of TCM or western medicine could increase the toxicity. Therefore, the crucial approach to avoid the poisoning is to use Cinnabaris properly.