DMSA (meso 2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid) is also known as Chemet, Succimer, or Captomer. DMSA is an FDA approved chelating agent for lead toxicity, but has been shown clinically to detoxify other heavy metals as well. This medication binds with metals such as lead, arsenic and mercury, excreting them through the liver, kidneys and bowel. DMSA comes in capsule form and is given orally. Care must be taken to drink 6 - 8 glasses of water a day while receiving DMSA treatments. The amount of DMSA per treatment is calculated according to body weight. Other factors are also considered which may lower the prescribed treatment dose. The usual treatment plan is five days of DMSA oral consumption, followed by a seven-day break, and then a second five days of oral DMSA is taken. After each five day DMSA treatment period, vitamin / mineral I.V.s must be administered to replace loses as a result of the chelation treatment. An evaluation will be conducted and repeat series may be indicated. The evaluation of any chelation treatment involves a urine test, which is testing for excretion of heavy metals.

Side effects are few but may include flu-like symptoms such as headache, rash, itching, tingling, dizziness and transient elevated liver enzymes. Also, a loss of appetite and a metallic taste in the mouth may be experienced.

DMSA is the gentlest method of chelation of the three presented. It is considered safe for children in the proper doses.