Rubidium (85,47 a.m.u.) present in body in tracer amounts. Approx. 1 g of rubidium is present in human body. Food sources – tea, coffee, mineral water. Minimal daily demand of rubidium is 0,1 mg. Intake of rubidium could be increased for workers of electronic, chemical and glass production. Rubidium is similar to potassium regarding kinetics and intake, distribution and excretion mechanisms. It is being quickly absorbed from the gastro-intestinal tract, in blood mostly present in erythrocytes, excreted mainly by kidneys.
Potentially could be indicative as potassium competitor. In experiments shows physiologic effect on muscular contraction and acid-base balance similar to potassium. Toxicity mechanisms of overdoses of rubidium concentrates in experiments are also indicating similarity to the potassium overdoses toxicity mechanism.
Physiologic role of rubidium is its ability to inhibit prostaglandins PGE1 and PGE2, PGE2-alpha and presence of antihistamine features. Radioactive isotope 87Rb is hazardous to health. Mostly it constitutes 28% of rubidium total amount, intaken by a body. Excessive intake of rubidium could indicate local irritation of skin and mucosa, chronic irritation of upper respiratory passages, arrhythmias, sleep disorders, headaches, proteinuria. Concentration of rubidium lower than 250 mcg/kg in food of experimental animals could cause disorders of prenatal development, abortions and preterm deliveries.
In recent decades in experimental medicine perspective of use of rubidium salts for treatment of nervous and muscular systems diseases are being researched. Radioactive rubidium isotope is being used in radiologic investigation methods.
