Chelation for Heavy Metals (Arsenic, Lead, and Mercury): Protective or Perilous?

Abstract

Despite clinical experience that spans more than half a century, chelation for toxic heavy metals represents one of the most controversial and misapplied interventions in clinical toxicology. The prompt use of chelating agents to treat acute, life-threatening intoxication is an indication that is largely supported by experimental animal data and limited clinical research. Although chelating agents administered for chronic intoxication may accelerate the excretion of heavy metals, their therapeutic efficacy in terms of decreased morbidity and mortality is largely unestablished. Recent investigations suggest that their use in such settings might be associated with deleterious effects. Careful attention to risk-benefit issues is warranted, particularly in clinical situations in which the etiological role of heavy metals in the patient's illness is in question.

Medical Toxicology Case Presentations: to Chelate or Not to Chelate, Is that the Question?

“…Beginning from the premise that the most important consideration in initiating a course of therapy (in this instance, chelation) is having the correct diagnosis, we should strive to ensure that these diagnoses are not based on false interpretation or manipulation of laboratory data. Furthermore, we should emphasize the importance of removal of a harmful substance (decorporation) as opposed to redistribution with the potential for harm associated with that action [24]. Efficacy of chelation treatment should be determined by the combination of demonstrated removal and improvement of causally related symptoms.…”

A Food Supplement with Lead Chelating Effects: A Preliminary Study

“…When administered inappropriately, chelation therapy also increases the risks of cancer development and neurodevelopmental disorders, even death [4,5]. Chelating therapy should therefore never be considered unless the blood lead level reaches above 45 ug/dl [3]. For the less severe in toxications, some other safe interventions are very much needed.…”

“…However, it is important to note that proper chelating therapy will lead to serious adverse effects, which include dehydration, anemia, low blood calcium, damages to the kidneys and liver, allergic reactions, and nutritional defects [3]. When administered inappropriately, chelation therapy also increases the risks of cancer development and neurodevelopmental disorders, even death [4,5].…”

Synthesis of L-Carnosine and its Applications in Biomedical Field

“…Other uses include treating damaged arteries (atherosclerosis) by removing calcium from arterial plaques, curing or improving symptoms of autism, preventing or curing neurodegenerative conditions such as alzheimer's disease, kidney dysfunction, eye disorder, thyroid, arthritis and etc. [1]. Carnosine, β-alanyl-L-histidine, is a naturally occurring dipeptide that in humans is preferentially localized in skeletal muscles and brain.…”