Chelation Therapy refers specifically to therapy aimed at enhancing the elimination of heavy metals from the body.
The word chelate comes from the greek word chele which refers to the claws of a crab. Chelator molecules are molecules which are able to form claws or ring structures around heavy metals and other minerals. These molecules abound in nature, the most well known examples being the chlorophyll molecule and the hemoglobin molecule, which are chelator molecules for magnesium and iron respectively.
EDTA (ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid) is a simple amino acid continuing 4 repeating units (tetravalent). This structure gives the molecule a uniquely strong ability to attach itself to metals and minerals. Subsequent renal excretion (elimination through the urinary system) allows these metals to be removed from the body. EDTA is FDA approved for the removal of toxic metals ions, such as lead. EDTA is also typically used for a variety of heavy metal toxicities, including aluminum, cadmium, arsenic, etc. Case control studies, epidemiological data, observational studies, and the large randomized clinical trial called TACT (Trial to Assess Chelation Therapy) all suggest that EDTA may be beneficial in treating vascular disease and other chronic disorders.1-2 In chronic disease EDTA is theorized to act, not only as a chelator of toxic heavy metals, but as an inducer of antioxidant capacity, and as a remover of biofilm.
Despite the evidence, however, conventional physicians do not support the use of EDTA chelation treatment for vascular disease or other chronic disease at this time.
EDTA Chelation therapy can be administered by a variety of routes however it has poor oral and topical absorption, and many patients have difficulty with rectal administration.
Therefore, we offer EDTA chelation therapy as a series of intravenous infusions in the physician’s office. This therapy is combined with a Comprehensive Assessment, in order to outline a comprehensive medical management program based on our principles of medical practice. Under current treatment protocols, EDTA Chelation therapy is considered a very safe therapeutic option.3, 4
Although EDTA is the most common chelating agent we use, in some cases, other chelating agents besides EDTA may be indicated. Please schedule a comprehensive Assessment in order to see what type of chelation therapy program may be right for you.
Dr. Lawinski received training as a Certified Chelation Therapist from the American College for the Advancement of Medicine, which is the leading medical society offering rigorous training in the technique. Please see the ACAM website for additional information on EDTA Chelation therapy.
References: 1. TACT. 2. Chelation Therapy Textbook. 3. L. Terry Chappell, M.D. Applications Of EDTA Chelation Therapy. Alt Med Rev 1997;2(6):426-432. 4. Theodore C Rozema. The Protocol for the Safe and Effective Administration of EDTA and Other Chelating Agents for Vascular Disease, Degenerative Disease, and Metal Toxicity. Journal of Advancement in Medicine 1997; 10 (1): 5-100.