Ammonia is a naturally-occurring compound with a chemical formula NH3 and structure of trigonal pyramidal geometry. It is a colorless gas with a pungent smell, and become NH4, or ammonium... Although ammonia is used as a food additive in the anhydrous form and serves as a starting material in pharmaceutical and commercial products, it is caustic and hazardous when concentrated.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed · 2 references
Renal excretion and metabolism of ammonia is critical in regulation of acid-base balance by generating bicarbonate ions and promoting renal net acid excretion, both under basal conditions and in response to acid-base disturbances. There is evidence that acute ammonia exposure activates NMDA receptor signalling pathways, and high concentrations of ammonia resulting from urea cycle enzyme deficiencies are associated with changes in astrocyte morphology due to glutamine accumulation, changes in the expression of key astrocyte proteins, and increased concentrations of neuroactive L-tryptophan metabolites.
- Primary indication
- Indicated for use as a smelling salt to treat or prevent fainting.Curator reviewed · 3 structured indications
- First approval
- Canada, 1930 · United States, 2013
- Brand names
Resolves to
What you can answer from here — as of July 06, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Ammonia, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
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