I'm aware that platinum compounds are used as cancer treatments. Is gold or its compounds used in any medical treatments?

The claims for the medical benefits of gold date back many of thousands of years. Many Eastern cultures have traditionally used gold-based medicinal preparations in the treatment of ailments such as smallpox, skin ulcers and measles.

Gold has been used for many years to successfully treat rheumatoid arthritis. The gold compound is administered by injection or tablet and works to not only decrease the pain and swelling of arthritis, but may also prevent joint damage and disability. As well as these established applications, trials are currently underway to develop the use of gold in the treatment of certain types of cancer, HIV and malaria.

Formed pieces of gold metal are used as medical implants for patients whose eyelid muscles have degenerated and in patients suffering from problems with the inner ear, where its resistance to bacterial infection is so important.

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