Amifostine trihydrate is primarily used as a cytoprotective agent in cancer therapy. It helps protect healthy tissues from the damaging effects of radiation therapy and certain chemotherapy drugs, particularly cisplatin. By selectively shielding normal cells, it reduces side effects such as kidney toxicity, hearing loss, and damage to the bone marrow. It is commonly administered intravenously before chemotherapy or radiation sessions. Additionally, it has been explored in the prevention of dry mouth (xerostomia) in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancers. Its ability to selectively protect healthy cells while allowing cancer cells to remain vulnerable makes it a valuable adjunct in oncology treatments. It has also been investigated for radioprotection in nuclear emergencies.