Chemet

Chemet is a chelation therapy medication used primarily to treat lead poisoning in both adults and children. The active ingredient in Chemet is succimer, a dithiol compound that binds to heavy metals in the bloodstream, allowing them to be excreted from the body through the urine.

Medical Uses

Chemet is indicated for the treatment of lead poisoning in patients with blood lead levels above 45 µg/dL. It is also used off-label for the treatment of poisoning by other heavy metals, such as mercury and arsenic. Chemet is administered orally in capsule form, and the dosage is typically based on the patient's weight and the severity of the poisoning.

Mechanism of Action

The active ingredient in Chemet, succimer, works by binding to heavy metals in the bloodstream. Succimer contains two thiol groups that form stable complexes with heavy metals, which are then excreted in the urine. This process reduces the concentration of heavy metals in the body, thereby mitigating their toxic effects.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Chemet include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. More serious side effects can include neutropenia, elevated liver enzymes, and allergic reactions. Patients undergoing treatment with Chemet should be monitored regularly for these potential adverse effects.

History

Chemet was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1991 for the treatment of lead poisoning. It has since become a standard treatment for this condition, particularly in pediatric cases.

Related Pages

• Lead poisoning
• Chelation therapy
• Heavy metal poisoning
• Mercury poisoning
• Arsenic poisoning
• Food and Drug Administration

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