Chelation is the process of removing heavy metals and other substances from the body using an amino acid known as EDTA, or ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. While it has been approved to treat heavy metal poisoning, EDTA is sometimes used off-label to treat diseases such as atherosclerosis, cancer and autism, despite a lack of supporting evidence for these uses. In some instances, chelation can cause serious side effects, including death. Understanding the risks of chelation therapy is vital for making informed decisions about its use.
Renal Failure
Kidney impairment is one of the most serious concerns regarding chelation therapy. According to the American Heart Association, chelation has been associated with several cases of kidney failure that resulted in the need for lifelong dialysis or kidney transplants.
EDTA is thought to cause nephrotoxicity by impairing the kidneys' ability to filter creatine and other proteins from the blood. Patients undergoing chelation therapy should have their renal function monitored closely at all times. Those with pre-existing kidney disease or impairment may be at an even greater risk for problems.
Calcium Depletion
While EDTA is effective in removing dangerous heavy metals, it can also pull calcium from the body at dangerous rates. The American Cancer Society states that chelation can lead to bone loss or death by inducing severe hypocalcemia, or low blood calcium.
Doctors who administer EDTA intravenously often do so with calcium and other minerals to prevent dangerous deficiencies. Close monitoring of blood calcium levels may be necessary to prevent hypocalcemia during chelation therapy.
Cardiovascular Problems
Due to its ability to remove calcium from the body, chelation is sometimes promoted as a treatment for atherosclerosis---or the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Unfortunately, it can also cause serious heart problems in some people. According to Aetna Intelihealth, chelation may trigger dangerous changes in blood pressure, increase the risk of blood clots and impair the body's ability to form new blood cells. Other potential risks include low blood platelet counts and heart arrhythmias.
According to the American Heart Association, chelation therapy has not been proved effective for reducing plaque in the arteries, making it a poor and potentially dangerous treatment for atherosclerosis. Patients with a history of heart problems may be particularly susceptible to these risks and should avoid chelation therapy.
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