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Cesium

Also known as: Cesium, Cs, Caesium, Cesium chloride, CsCl

Overview

Cesium (Cs) is a soft, silvery-gold alkali metal found in trace amounts in the Earth's crust. It is not a significant component of the human diet. While historically used in alternative cancer treatments, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support its efficacy, and its use poses significant health risks. Cesium's atomic number is 55, and its atomic mass is 132.91 u. It is highly reactive and has a short half-life in medical applications, such as Cesium-131 used in brachytherapy. The available evidence is weak, primarily focusing on adverse effects rather than health benefits. Due to safety concerns, cesium is not recommended as a dietary supplement.

Benefits

There is no robust evidence supporting the use of cesium as a dietary supplement for health benefits. Some studies suggest potential applications in brachytherapy for high-grade gliomas, but this is unrelated to dietary supplementation. No population-specific benefits have been established for dietary use. Effect sizes and clinical significance are not quantifiable due to the lack of efficacy data. Therefore, the use of cesium as a dietary supplement is not supported by scientific evidence.

How it works

Cesium can affect glycine receptors, acting as an agonist, which may contribute to its adverse effects. It can cause significant disruptions in potassium levels, leading to hypokalemia. Cesium is absorbed into the body but has a long half-life, making it difficult to eliminate. Its interaction with glycine receptors and its impact on potassium levels are the primary mechanisms through which it exerts its adverse effects.

Side effects

Cesium poses significant health risks, particularly cardiac toxicity. Common side effects include hypokalemia and QT prolongation. Uncommon side effects are seizures and arrhythmias. Rare but severe side effects include cardiac arrest and death. Cesium may interact with medications affecting potassium levels. It is contraindicated for general use due to these safety risks. Special populations, such as pregnant women and individuals with heart conditions, should avoid cesium entirely. The FDA has issued warnings about the significant safety risks associated with cesium, emphasizing its potential dangers.

Dosage

A minimum effective dose has not been established for dietary use, and optimal dosage ranges are not recommended due to safety concerns. A maximum safe dose has not been established, and its use is discouraged. Timing considerations are not applicable, and all forms should be avoided due to safety risks. Cesium is absorbed but has a long half-life. No required cofactors are recommended. Due to the potential for severe adverse effects, cesium should not be used as a dietary supplement.

FAQs

Is cesium safe for dietary use?

No, cesium is not safe for dietary use due to the risk of severe side effects, including cardiac toxicity, hypokalemia, and potentially death. Its use is strongly discouraged.

When should I take cesium?

Cesium is not recommended for dietary use, so there are no guidelines for timing or administration. Its use should be avoided due to significant health risks.

What are the expected results from taking cesium?

No health benefits are supported by evidence, and its use poses significant health risks. Therefore, no positive results are expected, and adverse effects are likely.

Is cesium effective for cancer treatment?

Cesium is not proven to be effective for cancer treatment and poses significant health risks. The FDA has warned about its dangers, and its use in alternative cancer treatments is not supported by scientific evidence.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4440464/ – This case report highlights the use of amiloride to mitigate cesium-induced hypokalemia. It demonstrates the potential for severe potassium wasting with cesium use, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring and management of electrolyte imbalances when cesium is involved.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40091071/ – This study investigates the effects of cesium on the heart. The research indicates that cesium can induce cardiac toxicity, leading to arrhythmias and other adverse cardiovascular events, highlighting the potential dangers of cesium exposure.
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnmol.2023.1018530/full – This article explores the interaction of cesium with glycine receptors. It suggests that cesium acts as an agonist at these receptors, which may contribute to its neurotoxic effects and other adverse health outcomes.
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/human-drug-compounding/fda-alerts-health-care-professionals-significant-safety-risks-associated-cesium-chloride – The FDA has issued a warning about the significant safety risks associated with cesium chloride. The alert emphasizes the potential for cardiac toxicity and death, advising healthcare professionals and consumers to avoid products containing cesium chloride due to these serious health hazards.