If you're exploring chelation therapy, you're already taking an important step toward supporting your body’s natural detoxification process. Chelation can help remove heavy metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic from the body but knowing which approach is right for you can feel overwhelming. Two of the most commonly used chelating agents are EDTA and DMPS.
Here’s a closer look at how they work, what they’re best for, and how nutrient support can play a key role in helping you feel your best during treatment.
.webp?width=850&height=567&name=Patient%20Receiving%20Vitamin%20IV%20Therapy%20(1).webp)
What Is Chelation Therapy?
Chelation therapy involves using a specific compound, called a chelator, that binds to metals in the bloodstream. These metal-chelator complexes are then excreted, often through the kidneys. It's used to address:- Heavy metal toxicity (from lead, mercury, arsenic, etc.)
- Environmental exposure
- Cardiovascular plaque buildup (in some EDTA protocols)
Before treatment, providers often run lab tests to assess your heavy metal burden and determine the best chelator for your needs.
Comparing Two Common Chelators: EDTA and DMPS
| EDTA | DMPS | |
| Best For | Lead, calcium (vascular plaques) | Mercury, arsenic, cadmium |
| How it Works | Binds to divalent/trivalent metals | Strong binding to metals that react with sulfur (thiols) |
| Common Routes | IV most often; some oral forms | IV, oral, or subcutaneous |
| Kidney Function | Needs to be monitored during treatment | Same, excreted through kidneys |
| Clinical Use | Often used in cardiovascular detox and lead protocols | Preferred for mercury or arsenic detox |
Why Nutrient Support Matters
Chelation doesn't just remove harmful metals; it can also impact your levels of essential nutrients. That’s why comprehensive chelation protocols often include IV replenishment, especially with vitamins and minerals that support:
- Energy metabolism
- Immune response
- Mood and nervous system balance
Many people include a Myers Cocktail IV, a blend of B vitamins, magnesium, and vitamin C, alongside chelation. Others may add NAD+ for cellular energy or glutathione to support antioxidant detox pathways.
EDTA vs. DMPS: Which One Should I Ask About?
Here’s a simplified overview of what each agent targets:
| Metal | Preferred Chelator | Why |
| Lead | EDTA (gold standard) | Strong affinity; calcium EDTA is preferred for IV safety |
| Mercury | DMPS | Binds multiple forms of mercury (elemental, organic, inorganic) |
| Arsenic | DMPS | Rapid chelation in both acute and chronic exposure |
| Cadmium | DMPS > EDTA | Both can bind, but DMPS is generally more effective |
| Calcium (in arteries) | EDTA | Disodium EDTA used in cardiovascular protocols |
| Iron (Fe³⁺) | Neither | Other chelators (like deferoxamine) are used here |
Keep in mind: no two detox plans are exactly the same. Your will likely start with a lab work to personalize your protocol.
Supporting the Whole You
Chelation can be a powerful part of a broader wellness plan but detox isn’t just about what you remove. It’s also about what you replenish and rebuild.
By combining targeted chelation agents like EDTA or DMPS with restorative IV support, you’re helping your body clear toxins while maintaining strength, energy, and resilience along the way.
Interested in Chelation Therapy?
If you’re curious about starting chelation, we offer a comprehensive 10–12 week protocol designed to support your full detox and recovery journey. Our Chelation Therapy Package includes:- Pre- and post-lab testing to assess heavy metal levels
- Weekly IV chelation treatments (EDTA or DMPS)
- Myers Cocktail nutrient replenishment to restore essential vitamins and minerals
- Optional add-ons like NAD+, high-dose glutathione, or vitamin injections to further support energy, mood, and cellular repair
This is a guided experience built around total-body support not just detox, but rejuvenation.
Want to learn more or see if it’s a fit for you?
