Gosset Molecular Classification
Metabolic Pathway, Enzyme, Small Molecule
Other Names
Ammonia Detoxification, Nitrogen Disposal, Hyperammonemia Treatment
Disease Roles
Ammonia Scavenger Mechanism Overview
Ammonia scavengers are molecules or drugs that facilitate the removal of excess ammonia from the body, particularly in conditions where normal metabolic pathways (such as the urea cycle) are impaired. They act either endogenously via hepatic enzymes or pharmacologically as drugs that convert toxic ammonium ions into non-toxic compounds eliminated renally. They play a critical role when normal hepatic clearance fails due to genetic defects or acquired liver dysfunction.
Mechanism of Action
Provide alternative pathway(s) for nitrogen/ammonia disposal via urinary excretion
Biological Functions
Ammonia detoxification
Nitrogen homeostasis
Urea cycle support
Glutamine synthesis
Disease Associations
Urea Cycle Disorders (UCDs)
Hepatic Encephalopathy
Liver Failure
Hyperammonemia
Safety Considerations
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Drug interactions
- Gastrointestinal side effects
- Neurotoxicity (if ammonia levels are not adequately controlled)
Interacting Drugs
Sodium benzoate
Sodium phenylacetate
Glycerol phenylbutyrate
L-Ornithine
L-Citrulline
Alpha-Ketoglutarate
Arabinogalactan
Associated Biomarkers
| Biomarker |
|---|
| Blood ammonia levels |
| Urine hippurate levels |
| Urine phenylacetylglutamine levels |