DMSA, or meso-2-3-dimercaptosuccinic acid, is one of a group of sulfur-containing substances known as dithols. Since the 1950s , DMSA has been a way to effectively treat lead and mercury poisoning. In 1991, it was also approved to treat pediatric lead poisoning. DMSA is also able to cross the blood-brain barrier, making it effective in treating neurological disorders. The amount of time a child needs to take DMSA is dependent upon why DMSA is being used.
Lead Toxicity
If the child has been exposed to lead, DMSA is an effective way to remove lead from the body. The general rule of dosing is to take DMSA three times a day for the first five days, followed by 14 days of taking it twice daily. The amount of DMSA per dose will be determined by your child's doctor. Chiropractic Dr. Ralph C. Cinque notes many studies which show successful treatment of lead and mercury toxicity using DMSA.
Mercury Toxicity
When a child is exposed to mercury, it is all at once versus the slow exposure of lead. Treatment of mercury poisoning only takes eight to 24 hours. Only one dose is normally taken for this issue. This one dose shows effectiveness at removing the mercury, with no mercury shown in 24 hours after the first dose.
Mercury Toxicity in the Brain
If mercury toxicity has reached the brain, DMSA is able to remedy that as well. In this case, DMSA will be taken for up to eight days. Some suggest that the best dosing protocol is to take it every other day for up to 15 days. Studies done by the Division on Basic Medical Sciences, headed b Dr. James B Adams, support these findings in clinical trials done with 65 children ages 3 to 8 years.
Neurological Disorders
DMSA has been successfully used to help with neurological disorders such as autism. In this case, long-term DMSA use can be prescribed, with only a doctor being able to inform you when to discontinue use for your child. Always consult your medical professional before beginning any regiment of drugs. Often, autism patients are treated by a chiropractor as chiropractics has been shown as helpful in autism. As a course of treatment, a chiropractor may often prescribe DMSA as well.
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