Description of Molybdenum

Molybdenum is an essential trace element found in a variety of foods and often used as a dietary supplement. It plays a crucial role in detoxification pathways, helping the body metabolize sulfur-containing amino acids, drugs, and toxins. Molybdenum is commonly included in IV drip and IV infusion drip protocols to address deficiencies.

Clinical Pharmacology

Molybdenum acts as a cofactor for important enzymes like aldehyde oxidase and xanthine oxidase, which are responsible for metabolizing toxins and drugs. Deficiencies can lead to severe neurodegenerative conditions, particularly in newborns.

Indications and Usage

Molybdenum is used in cases of molybdenum cofactor deficiency, autoimmune diseases, and in the treatment of copper toxicity. It also supports patients with sulfur toxicity and various neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and ALS. Molybdenum can be an essential component of Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) for patients who cannot absorb nutrients through the gastrointestinal tract.

Contraindications and Warnings

Molybdenum should not be administered undiluted into a vein, as it can cause significant irritation. Patients with copper deficiency should not receive molybdenum without also monitoring copper levels. Learn more about contraindications here.

Adverse Reactions and Overdose

At standard doses, molybdenum is well-tolerated. However, excessive molybdenum intake can lead to conditions like gout. Chronic exposure can lead to DNA and RNA damage in organs such as the liver and lungs. Learn more about molybdenum overdose here.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended dosage for adults receiving IV infusion is between 20 to 120 mcg/day. Pediatric dosages are based on body weight. Molybdenum must be diluted before intravenous administration.