Dimercaptosuccinic Acid (DMSA) Treatment of Children With Autism and Heavy Metal Toxicity

DMSA Treatment of Children With Autism and Heavy Metal Toxicity

Many children with autism have a reduced level of glutathione and a reduced ability to excrete mercury, resulting in elevated levels in their bodies as demonstrated by blood, hair, provoked urine, and baby tooth testing. Our earlier studies have demonstrated that DMSA, an FDA-approved medication for treating lead poisoning in children, is effective in increasing excretion of mercury and other toxic metals. Based on many clinical reports, we hypothesize that a 3-month treatment with glutathione and DMSA will result in a reduction of autistic symptoms in some children with autism.

This study will assess the safety and efficacy of the use of DMSA (an FDA-approved medication for treating lead poisoning in children) for the off-label treatment of symptoms of autism in children with autism and significant body burden of toxic metals.

Inclusion Criteria:

Phase One

1. Children with autism spectrum disorder
2. Age 3-8 years (up to the day before the ninth birthday).
3. At least a two-month history of taking a multi-vitamin/mineral supplement with at least the RDA of zinc, and continuing to take that during Phase One and Two.

Phase Two:

1. Excretion of high amounts of toxic metals in phase one
2. Normal kidney/liver function, serum transaminases, and Complete Blood Count (CBC) (based on a blood test which will be conducted as part of Phase Two)
3. No changes in medication, supplements, diet, or behavioral interventions during the study

Exclusion Criteria:

Phase One and Two:

• No mercury amalgam dental fillings.
• No previous use of DMSA or other prescription chelators (except for 1-time challenges).
• No anemia or currently being treated for anemia due to low iron.
• No known allergies to DMSA
• No liver or kidney disease