Drugs that bind to heavy metals to form a stable, non-toxic compound that can be easily excreted by the kidney are called:

Question

Question

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Chelating agent

Rationale:

Chelating agents are drugs that bind to heavy metals in the body to form stable, non-toxic compounds. These compounds can then be easily excreted by the kidneys, thereby reducing the toxicity of the metals.
Chelation therapy is commonly used in cases of heavy metal poisoning, such as lead, mercury, and arsenic poisoning. The chelating agents bind to the metals, which are otherwise toxic, and facilitate their removal from the body.
Examples of chelating agents include EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), dimercaprol (BAL), and DMSA (dimercaptosuccinic acid).

Explanation of Other Options:

Antimetabolite

Rationale: Antimetabolites are a class of drugs that interfere with DNA and RNA synthesis by mimicking the natural substances used in these processes. They are commonly used in chemotherapy to treat cancer. They do not bind to heavy metals or facilitate their excretion.

Antibiotics

Rationale: Antibiotics are drugs used to treat bacterial infections. They work by killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth. Antibiotics do not have the ability to bind to heavy metals or promote their excretion from the body.

NM agent

Rationale: NM agent is not a recognized term in medical or pharmaceutical contexts. This option is likely incorrect or a typo.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, a chelating agent is the correct choice as it specifically binds to heavy metals to form non-toxic compounds that can be excreted by the kidneys, thereby aiding in the treatment of heavy metal poisoning.