What is the antidote for acute mercury poisoning?

The antidote for acute mercury poisoning involves the use of chelating agents. These agents bind to mercury in the bloodstream, forming complexes that can be more readily excreted by the kidneys, thus facilitating the removal of the toxic metal from the body. Common chelators used for mercury poisoning include dimercaprol (BAL) and succimer, both of which are effective in reducing the levels of mercury in the system and alleviating toxicity.

Using 100% oxygen is primarily indicated for carbon monoxide poisoning and is not effective in treating mercury toxicity. Atropine is an anticholinergic agent typically used in cases of organophosphate poisoning and does not play a role in treating mercury poisoning. Activated charcoal, while useful in some types of acute poisoning for binding various toxins when administered shortly after ingestion, is not effective for mercury, especially if the exposure was to elemental or inorganic mercury, as these do not bind significantly to charcoal. Thus, chelation remains the definitive treatment approach in managing acute mercury poisoning.