First published Sept 2, 2024
IV chelation therapy is a medical treatment primarily used for heavy metal poisoning, including lead poisoning, mercury exposure, and certain cases of iron overload. In this therapy, a chelating agent binds to toxic metal particles in the bloodstream, allowing them to be eliminated through urine.
The Food and Drug Administration recognizes specific forms of chelation therapy as an approved treatment for confirmed metal toxicity. However, chelation is not proven for every condition for which it is sometimes promoted, including many chronic diseases. Patients should understand both the established uses and the limits of current evidence.
At Immunity Therapy Center, intravenous chelation therapy is provided under medical supervision as part of a broader integrative approach when clinically appropriate.
What Is IV Chelation Therapy?
IV Chelation therapy is a treatment process for removing metals from the body’s blood vessel and tissues, so they don’t make you sick. Doctors administer chemicals called chelating agents into the body to remove heavy metals from the liver, lymphatic system, and kidneys.
Chelation therapy is a proven treatment for certain toxic exposures. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other public health authorities recognize chelation as appropriate in confirmed cases of heavy metal poisoning.
However, chelation is not automatically recommended for general “detox” purposes without documented metal toxicity.
Symptoms of Heavy Metal Poisoning
Heavy metal poisoning occurs when toxic metals build up in the body, leading to a variety of symptoms that can range from mild to severe. Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial for seeking timely treatment, such as chelation therapy. Here are some of the common symptoms:
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain often follow significant exposure to heavy metals.
- Neurological Effects: Individuals may experience headaches, dizziness, memory problems, and tingling in the extremities. In severe cases, symptoms can escalate to include tremors and cognitive decline.
- Fatigue and Weakness: Persistent tiredness, muscle weakness, and a general feeling of malaise are common signs of heavy metal poisoning.
- Cardiovascular Problems: Exposure to toxic metals can lead to high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, chest pain, and an increased risk of heart disease.
- Kidney and Liver Issues: Heavy metal poisoning can cause reduced kidney function, changes in urination patterns, liver dysfunction, and jaundice.
- Respiratory Symptoms: Inhalation of toxic metals can result in coughing, shortness of breath, and potential lung damage.
- Skin Changes: Skin symptoms may include rashes, discoloration, excessive sweating, and irritation.
- Immune System Suppression: Chronic exposure to heavy metals can weaken the immune system, leading to increased susceptibility to infections and prolonged recovery times.
If you experience these symptoms, chelation therapy may be able to help remove toxins and alleviate these symptoms.
How Does Chelation Therapy Work?
Chelation therapy involves delivering a chelating medication directly into the bloodstream through an IV. The medication works by binding to heavy metals like lead, mercury, arsenic, or excess iron. Once bound, the compound can be filtered by the kidneys and removed from the body.
Intravenous chelation therapy most commonly uses medications such as:
- Succimer
- Penicillamine
- Edetate calcium disodium
- Dimercaprol (BAL)
- Deferoxamine
Each chelating agent is selected based on the specific metal involved. For example, EDTA is often used for lead poisoning, while deferoxamine is used for iron overload.
What to Expect During Chelation IV Treatment
Here are some things you can expect when you receive your treatment.
Before Treatment
Patients undergo:
- Blood testing for metals in the body
- Kidney function tests
- Electrolyte evaluation
- Medical history review
Chelation should only be used when lab results confirm toxic exposure.
During the IV Chelation Session
A typical chelation IV treatment includes:
- IV drip placement
- Slow infusion of the chosen chelating agent
- Continuous monitoring of vital signs
- Observation for side effects
The infusion may last 1–3 hours depending on the medication used.
Monitoring After Treatment
Because chelation therapy can shift metals and minerals in the body, physicians monitor:
- Kidney function
- Blood calcium levels
- Blood pressure
- Signs of electrolyte imbalance
Proper monitoring reduces the risk of complications.
The Benefits of Chelation Therapy
Chelation therapy offers multiple benefits to the body. Scientific proof shows that chelating agents remove metal toxins from the bloodstream. The drugs are approved by the Food Drug Administration (FDA), but the organization has no over-the-counter approval. Below are the several chelation therapy benefits.
1. Gets Rid of Heavy Metal from the Body
One of the main benefits of chelation therapy is the effective removal of heavy metal toxins from the blood system. The toxins include mercury, lead, copper, nickel, and iron. It prevents potential illnesses that may develop as a result of these harmful toxins.
2. Reduces Risk of Developing Cancer
The high toxic levels in the body can lead to the growth of tumors in the body. Chelating agents block the metabolic pathways for cancer cells and control proteins affected by the toxic metals. This prevents the risk of developing some types of cancer.
3. Can Reduce Fatigue
The toxic chemicals in the body could cause physical and mental fatigue even if the amount of metal in the body is considered safe. You may notice that you no longer have the energy you had. Chelation therapy minimizes these symptoms, and you may begin to experience a higher energy concentration.
4. Can Lower Blood Pressure
The drugs used during chelation therapy can dislodge plaque from the arteries that cause fever, chills, weakness, and headaches. While not all the plague may come out of your arteries, the treatment can reduce the blockage size and lower blood pressure.
5. Can Minimize Cardiovascular Risk
Chelation therapy may minimize the risk of a heart attack in people with a medical history. The treatment can bind the calcium in the artery plaque and remove it from the blood vessels. A study shows that chelation treatment was somewhat effective in minimizing cardiovascular disease and strokes in people living with diabetes.
6. Alzheimer’s Treatment
Alzheimer’s disease could occur due to high protein build-up around the brain. This protein is called beta-amyloid. Some Studies show that chelation therapy can dissolve the beta-amyloid, potentially slowing down Alzheimer’s disease. Apart from Alzheimer’s, chelation therapy can also treat other cognitive disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease and Multiple Sclerosis.
7. Can Reduce Pain and Swelling
Chelation therapy can also reduce pain and swelling because of the Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) used during the treatment. This acid acts as an antioxidant in some patients and stores the damage done by air vitamins, also known as oxygen ions. Patients whose bodies do not detoxify can develop diseases such as arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, and many other autoimmune diseases. Chelation therapy can reduce inflammation and chronic pain.
8. Effective Anti-Aging Treatment
High exposure to metals can accelerate aging and cause one to look older than their age. Excess iron can generate oxidative stress and metabolic hemostasis. Chelation therapy can be a powerful anti-aging solution for patients with toxic metals in their bodies. EDTA injected in the body removes metal toxins and prevents early aging. If you are looking for more comprehensive detox methods, Detox Chelation Rife IVs can be a complementary approach.
Is Chelation Therapy Effective?
IV Chelation therapy can be effective if handled by a qualified physician. Any other treatment from other sources may not be effective and could cause you to experience severe side effects. You do not want to waste your time and money seeking treatment from unqualified doctors, risking your health in the long run.
Apart from chelation therapy, it is also imperative to take a comprehensive approach to your health. The doctor may advise you to watch your diet, and manage stress, and they may also recommend dietary supplements. This is why you should be careful with whom you approach for chelation treatment.
Risks and Side Effects of Chelation Therapy
Like any other medical treatment, chelation therapy comes with various risks. However, this treatment has been proven and has been in use for many years. IV infusion therapy has been safe and can treat acute metal poisoning in the body. Below are several common side effects that you may encounter with chelation therapy.
- Fever and chills
- Headache
- Burning sensation
- Tightness in the chest
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Convulsions or seizures
- Severe hypersensitivity
- Drop-in blood pressure
- Low blood calcium
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
- Severe allergic reactions
- Irregular heartbeats
Doctors at Immunity Therapy Center use natural, effective therapies without the painful side effects of chelation. This minimizes the risks of side effects. Patients do not have to worry about the severe side effects because we follow the procedure to the later to ensure they are safe and out of any danger.
Who Should Avoid Chelation Therapy?
Chelation may not be appropriate for individuals with:
- Severe kidney impairment
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Low calcium levels
- Certain heart rhythm disorders
Patients should never attempt to use chelation products purchased online. Over-the-counter or unapproved chelation supplements can cause dangerous mineral depletion.
Chelation therapy should only be performed by qualified medical professionals in a supervised setting.
How Much Does Chelation Therapy Cost?
Chelation therapy costs can range from $75 to $150 per IV therapy session. The patient often attends several therapies weekly for several months, depending on their condition and needs. The total cost of chelation treatment can range between $3,000 and $5,000. However, this depends on your doctor. Below are several other factors that can determine the IV Chelation therapy cost
- The number of tests as recommended by your physician
- The number of therapy sessions you attend
- The number and type of screenings depend on the lab you use
At the Immunity Therapy Center, we will first conduct a physical examination and assess your medical history. We can then run a blood and urine test to ensure you are suitable for the procedure before advising you about the IV Chelation therapy cost Remember, health insurance may not cover chelation therapy.
Important Medical Guidance
Chelation therapy should not be used casually for detoxification or anti-aging claims.
Avoid:
- DIY chelation protocols
- Online supplements claiming to “chelate”
- Providers who do not conduct proper lab testing
Chelation may be considered a complementary therapy in certain integrative care settings, but it must be supervised by licensed professionals.
Always consult a qualified physician before beginning any IV therapies, including chelation IV therapy or other integrative treatments such as oxygen therapy.
Where Can I Get Chelation Therapy?
If you are considering chelation treatment, it is imperative to seek a qualified physician. This treatment is not approved for home use. Physicians who perform chelation therapy must be well-trained and licensed to practice in.
The procedure can be complicated, and the tests are not straightforward because blood tests may only identify patients with severe and acute metal toxicity, not those with metals stored in the tissues. In this case, you should consult your physician for the chelation treatment.
At our Tijuana cancer center, we have a team of qualified, licensed doctors who are committed to delivering quality care to all our patients. Our team has over 20 years of experience in alternative medicine and therapy. Our patients encounter the utmost respect and outstanding experience from our doctors. We will examine your body and advise you on the best chelation treatment depending on your condition.
Take the Next Step with Immunity Therapy Center
If you believe you have been exposed to toxic metals such as lead or mercury, laboratory testing is the first step. When confirmed, approved chelation therapy may be recommended to you by the doctors.
At Immunity Therapy Center, we evaluate each patient carefully to determine whether intravenous chelation therapy is appropriate as part of a broader care plan.
Your safety, evidence-based guidance, and proper medical oversight remain the priority. Contact us to speak to a qualified doctor.
Written By: Dr. Adolfo Carrillo
Dr. Adolfo Carrillo is a Board Certified Medical Doctor from Universidad Autónoma de Baja California.
Dr. Carrillo has been collaborating with Dr. Bautista for over 5 years as a treating physician at the Immunity the Immunity Therapy Center. Dr. Carrillo is a charismatic Doctor whose knowledge and commitment to patient care and bringing healing to patients is a valuable asset to our center.
Sources:
- Webmd. What Is Chelation Therapy? https://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/what-is-chelation-therapy
- Very Well Health. What Is Chelation Therapy? https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-chelation-90006
- Poison and Control. Therapy or “Therapy”? https://www.poison.org/articles/chelation-therapy
- Health line. About IV Chelation Therapy. https://www.healthline.com/health/chelation-therapy
- The Natural Choice Clinic. CHELATION: IV OR ORAL? https://www.thenaturalchoiceclinic.com/chelation-iv-or-oral/
- Medical News Today. What to know about chelation therapy. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/chelation-therapy
- The Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. Study on chelation therapy and amyloid plaque reduction. https://content.iospress.com/journals/journal-of-alzheimers-disease/
- BMC Psychiatry. Study on heavy metal toxicity and its impact on anxiety and depression. https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/
