Chelation therapy
Chelation Therapy
Chelation therapy (/kɪˈleɪʃən/ ki-LAY-shən) is a medical procedure that involves the administration of chelating agents to remove heavy metals from the body. The term "chelation" is derived from the Greek word "chele," which means claw, referring to the molecular mechanism by which the chelating agent binds to the metal.
History
The concept of chelation therapy originated in the early 20th century with the development of ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), a synthetic amino acid and powerful chelating agent. It was first used in the 1940s as a treatment for lead poisoning.
Procedure
In chelation therapy, a dose of a medication known as a chelating agent is administered. This agent binds to heavy metals in the body, forming a complex that can be excreted in the urine. The most common chelating agents used in this therapy are EDTA, DMSA, and DMPS.
Uses
Chelation therapy is primarily used to treat heavy metal poisoning, including lead, mercury, and arsenic poisoning. It is also sometimes used in the treatment of heart disease and autism, although its effectiveness in these areas is not widely accepted in the medical community.
Risks and Side Effects
Like any medical procedure, chelation therapy carries potential risks and side effects. These may include kidney damage, low blood calcium levels, high blood pressure, and allergic reactions to the chelating agents. It is important for patients to discuss these risks with their healthcare provider before undergoing chelation therapy.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chelation therapy
- Wikipedia's article - Chelation therapy
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