What Is Urea?

Urea is a substance found in the body that helps in the process of metabolism. It is a compound made up of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and hydrogen atoms, and is produced naturally in the liver as a waste product of protein metabolism. As a result, it is known as a “bi-product” of protein metabolism and is released through the blood via the kidneys and into the urine. As a result, it is seen in high concentrations in the urine, and can often be used as a diagnostic tool for doctors.

Urea in the Human Body

Urea is the primary waste nitrogenous compound in the human body. It is produced in the liver and excreted, with the help of other metabolic processes, primarily through urine. The primary role of urea, once it has been filtered in the kidneys and released, is to help maintain fluid volume balance and concentration in the body. Urea is also responsible for several other functions in the body, such as forming part of the structural components of some proteins, and helping to kill bacteria and other microorganisms.

Medical Uses of Urea

Urea is often used in medical treatments and diagnostics, and is useful in a variety of ways. It is used to diagnose a variety of diseases related to the liver and kidney, since urea levels in the blood can act as a marker for such issues. Furthermore, urea can also be used as a topical treatment for dry skin and other dermatological issues, such as eczema and psoriasis, due to its high hydrating and moisturizing properties. Finally, urea can be used in chemotherapy treatments to reduce concentrations of small molecules in the blood.

Overall, urea is an important part of the daily metabolism in the human body, and plays a vital role in the many different functions that the body undertakes. It is an important waste product of protein metabolism that is produced in the liver and released into the blood through the kidneys. As a result it can be useful as a diagnostic tool when testing for certain diseases and conditions, and can also be used as a topical treatment for certain skin issues.