Is EDTA Harmful?

EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) is the generic name for a group of products designed to chelate (bind) harmful substances in the blood and remove them from the body. The use of these products presents several health risks.

Facts

Doctors may use two distinct forms of EDTA, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Edetate calcium disodium (Calcium Disodium Versenate) is used to treat cases of poisoning with lead and other heavy metals, while edetate disodium (Endrate) is used to treat cases of excessive blood calcium (hypercalcemia) and digitalis-related heart problems.

Potential Risks

The American Heart Association cites potential risks of EDTA use to include a form of kidney failure called renal tubercular necrosis, as well as low blood pressure, respiratory arrest, shock, bone marrow depression and heartbeat irregularities.

EDTA Misuse

The FDA notes that the two forms of EDTA have very different uses and effects. Similarities in medication names may lead doctors to use the wrong form of EDTA in a given treatment situation.

Misuse Outcomes

Using the wrong form of EDTA can trigger severe outcomes, including death, according to the FDA.

Considerations

Major adverse reactions to edetate disodium typically manifest within minutes to hours after use, notes the FDA. Reactions outside that time frame do not generally occur.