Edetate disodium

Edetate disodium, also known as disodium EDTA, is a chelating agent used in various medical and industrial applications. It is a salt of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and is primarily used to bind metal ions in solution.

Chemical Properties

Edetate disodium is a white, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water. Its chemical formula is C₁₀H₁₄N₂Na₂O₈, and it has a molecular weight of 336.21 g/mol. The compound forms stable complexes with most metal ions, including calcium, magnesium, lead, and iron.

Mechanism of Action

Edetate disodium acts by binding to metal ions through its four carboxylate and two amine groups, forming a stable ring structure known as a chelate. This process effectively sequesters the metal ions, preventing them from participating in chemical reactions. This property is particularly useful in the treatment of heavy metal poisoning, where the chelated metals are rendered inert and excreted from the body.

Medical Uses

Chelation Therapy

Edetate disodium is used in chelation therapy to treat heavy metal poisoning, such as lead poisoning. It is administered intravenously and works by binding to the lead ions in the bloodstream, which are then excreted in the urine. This treatment is particularly important in cases of acute lead toxicity.

Hypercalcemia

In cases of severe hypercalcemia, edetate disodium can be used to lower calcium levels in the blood. It binds to calcium ions, reducing their concentration and alleviating symptoms associated with high calcium levels.

Side Effects

The use of edetate disodium can lead to several side effects, including hypocalcemia, hypotension, renal failure, and allergic reactions. It is crucial to monitor patients closely during treatment to manage these potential adverse effects.

Contraindications

Edetate disodium is contraindicated in patients with renal insufficiency, hypocalcemia, or known hypersensitivity to the compound. It should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease due to the risk of hypotension.

Pharmacokinetics

After intravenous administration, edetate disodium is distributed throughout the extracellular fluid. It is not metabolized and is excreted unchanged in the urine. The elimination half-life is approximately 20 to 60 minutes, depending on renal function.

Industrial and Other Uses

Beyond its medical applications, edetate disodium is used in various industrial processes. It is a common additive in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals to prevent metal-catalyzed oxidation. It is also used in water treatment to sequester metal ions and improve water quality.

See Also

• Chelation therapy
• Heavy metal poisoning
• Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid

External Links

• DrugBank: Edetate Disodium
• PubChem: Edetate Disodium

Drug groups | Encyclopedia | Dictionary | Cancer drugs | OTC | Alternative meds | Drugs | Medications A-Z | FDA approved products | Portal:Pharmacology