Chelation therapy for cardiovascular disease
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Synonyms and keywords: Chelation therapy for post-myocardial infarction, chelation therapy for diabetics
Overview
Chelation Therapy and CVD
Mechanism of Action
Chelation therapy is considered a part of alternative medicine. Ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), a type of chelation therapy, binds to metals and form a soluble complex which facilitates their subsequent excretion in the urine.[1] Hence, chelation therapy helps in the elimination of metals including lead, iron, copper and calcium from the blood. The chelation therapy consists of EDTA along with additives such as vitamin B, ascorbic acid and magnesium which are thought to have a protective effect on the endothelial cells.[2] Cardiovascular benefits are thought to result from the antioxidant effects of the chelation therapy as it decreases the metal-dependent formation of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation.[2] In addition, removal of calcium from arterial wall by chelation therapy can possibly lead to a regression in the atherosclerotic plaque.[3][4]
Side Effects
Landmark Trials
Stable Patients
Diabetic Patients
References
- ↑ WILDER LW, DE JODE LR, MILSTEIN SW, HOWARD JM (1962). "Mobilization of atherosclerotic plaque calcium with EDTA utilizing the isolation-perfusion principle". Surgery. 52: 793–5. PMID 14000694.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Lamas GA, Ackermann A (2000). "Clinical evaluation of chelation therapy: is there any wheat amidst the chaff?". Am Heart J. 140 (1): 4–5. doi:10.1067/mhj.2000.107549. PMID 10874253.
- ↑ CLARKE NE (1960). "Atherosclerosis, occlusive vascular disease and EDTA". Am J Cardiol. 6: 233–6. PMID 13810514.
- ↑ KITCHELL JR, PALMON F, AYTAN N, MELTZER LE (1963). "The treatment of coronary artery disease with disodium EDTA. A reappraisal". Am J Cardiol. 11: 501–6. PMID 14033183.