Side Effects of EDTA Chelation
Chelation is a medical treatment that removes heavy metal toxins from the bloodstream. It usually involves repeated intravenous administration of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) at a hospital or other health care facility. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved EDTA chelation for treating cases of lead poisoning and other heavy metal poisoning, but many people use it for treating heart disease.
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Nonserious Side Effects
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The most common side effect associated with EDTA chelation is a burning feeling at the puncture site. Rare side effects include fever, headache, nausea and vomiting.
Calcium Decrease
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EDTA chelation carries the rare but serious risk of a sudden plunge in calcium levels, which has resulted in death on some occasions.
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Other Serious Effects
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Other possible serious side effects associated with EDTA chelation include cardiac arrest, irregular heartbeat, kidney damage, low blood pressure, low blood sugar and seizures.
Vitamin and Mineral Depletion
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Along with calcium issues, EDTA chelation therapy also can seriously decrease levels of vitamins and minerals in the body.
Antibiotic Absorption
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Additionally, EDTA may increase the absorption of cefmetazole, a cephalosporin antibiotic.
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