What is this medicine?
DMSA (meso-2,3-Dimercaptosuccinic Acid)
- DMSA binds to lead and other heavy metals that are then excreted through the kidneys.
- It may help address heavy metal poisoning.
- It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Compounded Drug Forms: capsule
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
- Allergy to DMSA
- Pregnant or may become pregnant; are breastfeeding.
- Low white blood cells or platelets
- Kidney dysfunction or disease
- Liver dysfunction or disease
How should I use this medicine?
Follow the package directions provided by Belmar Pharma Solutions and by your prescriber. Your dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Follow the dosing schedule provided carefully.
Oral dosage forms must be taken on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Take oral medications with plenty of water.
What if I miss a dose?
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible.
- If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
- Do not take double the dose at once.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Belmar Pharma Solutions recommends yearly checkups with your provider. Monitoring of heavy metal blood levels during chelation therapy is recommended. Liver serum transaminases may be evaluated more frequently in those with liver dysfunction.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Possible side effects that may occur and may go away as your body gets used to the medication include:
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps or pain
- Metallic taste
- Pain in the lower back or side
- Headache
- Dizziness or fatigue
- Cold or flu-like symptoms
- Loss of strength and energy
- Lack of appetite
- Acne or skin rash
Serious Side Effects:
Contact your doctor immediately or seek medical attention if you experience:
- Infection
- Rectal irritation
- Ear pain
- Feeling of burning or numbness
- Signs of cardiac arrhythmia
You may experience side effects not listed. Contact your doctor with questions.
An allergic reaction to this medication is unlikely but seek medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Store at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F, unless otherwise specified on the packaging.
Additional Information:
- Do not share this medication with others to whom it was not prescribed.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- If an overdose is suspected contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or go to the nearest emergency room.
If you have any questions concerning this or any of your medications, a pharmacist is available during normal business hours to answer your questions. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer: This information should not be used to decide whether or not to
take this medication or any other medication. Only the healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to
decide which medicines are right for a specific patient. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a brief summary of general information about this medicine. It does not include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. For questions about the source of any of the information provided herein, pharmacists at Belmar Pharma Solutions are available. This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from the healthcare provider. You must talk with the healthcare provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of this medicine.
Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to dispose of medications. There may be a drug take-back program in your area.
References:
- Succimer Oral. Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts and Comparisons eAnswers. Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. Riverwoods, IL. Accessed July 2021.
- Succimer. PubChem. National Library of Medicine National Center for Biotechnology information. National Institutes of Health. Bethesda, MD. Accessed July 2021.
