Chelation Therapy

Overview of Chelation Therapy for Toxic Metal Removal

Chelation therapy is used to remove toxic metals such as cadmium, arsenic, lead and mercury from our bodies. These substances can come from “silver” dental fillings, vaccines, our food or environmental chemical exposure. Over time, these heavy metals can accumulate in our bodies causing symptoms like memory loss or fatigue, and can lead to diseases such as cancer and vascular disease.

How does Chelation work?

Chelation is a medical treatment used to bind toxic metals so they can be removed from the body. A”chelating agent” is a special chemical that will bind tightly to heavy metals in the body allowing them to be excreted in the urine or feces (bowel movement). It is administered intravenously for maximum effect. Chelating agents also bind to minerals in the body, so adequate replacement of minerals orally is an important part of the chelation process.

What types of chelation are offered?

EDTA Chelation is the most common type of therapy offered and is most frequently used to treat vascular diseases, such as cerebrovascular disease (stroke), heart disease, angina, peripheral vascular disease (poor circulation), kidney disease and dementia . EDTA Chelation takes 3-4 hours to administer.

DMPS Chelation is also administered via an IV and takes 20 – 30 minutes to complete. It is used to remove heavy metals such as mercury and lead.

What can patients expect?

A physician consultation will be necessary to determine if chelation is appropriate, and to determine which type is needed. Upon approval, a series of treatments are scheduled for one or more times per week. Chelation therapy generally involves a series of intravenous drips, done over several weeks or months.

The infusion is generally given through period of 30 to 180 minutes. Patients sit comfortably in a reclining chair and are monitored closely by a registered nurse. Patients have access to DVD movies, magazines, wireless internet and health related educational CD’s for their entertainment during this time. Chelation can also remove minerals from the body, so patients are asked to take mineral supplements during treatment.

Are there any side effects?

Potential side effects vary depending on the type of chelation given, but are minimal with most patients. The most common side effect is pain at the injection site (easily relieved with heat or cold compresses). Occasionally patients will experience lightheadedness or hypoglycemia symptoms. Eating and being well hydrated before chelation therapy will limit the potential of experiencing side effects. Patients should bring a snack if the treatment is expected to last longer than an hour. Chelation has been used safely in the United States for over 50 years.