Chelation therapy is a series of intravenous infusions containing EDTA and various other substances. It is falsely claimed to be effective against cardiovascular disease, autism, and many other diseases and conditions. Because chelation has valid use in some cases of heavy metal poisoning, many practitioners falsely diagnose lead, mercury, or other heavy metal toxicity to trick patients into undergoing chelation. The articles linked from this page explain why doctors who advocate the general use of chelation therapy should be avoided.
Basic Information
- Chelation Therapy: Unproven Claims and Unsound Theories
- The Pharmacology of Chelation Therapy
- Chelation Therapy and Insurance Fraud
- Questions and Answers about Chelation Therapy (American Heart Association)
- National Council Against Health Fraud Policy Statement
- EDTA Chelation Therapy for Atherosclerosis and Degenerative Diseases: Implausibility and Paradoxical Oxidant Effects
- Birmingham Technology Assessment Group Report
- Chelation Treatment of Autism Is Bogus
Inappropriate Testing
Clinical Studies
- Allain P and others. Effects of an EDTA infusion on the urinary elimination of several elements in healthy subjects. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology 31:347-349, 1991.
- Guldager B and others. EDTA treatment of intermittent claudication: A double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Journal of Internal Medicine 231:261-267, 1992.
- Knudtson, ML and others. Chelation therapy for ischemic heart disease: a randomized, controlled trial. JAMA 87:481-486, 2002
Private Lawsuits
- Edelson Center Sued Twice for Fraud and Malpractice
- Fraud Charged in Chelation Related Death
- Suit Filed against Australian Chelationist
Regulatory Actions
- A Close Look at “Dr.” Paula Bickle
- Chelation “Board” Denied Certification Provider Status in Florida
- Chelationist Charged with Insurance Fraud
- Chiropractor Convicted of Chelation Fraud
- FTC Action against Organization Promoting Chelation Therapy
- Discliplinary Proceedings against Eleazar M. Kadile, M.D.
- Disciplinary Actions against Robban Sica, M.D.
- Disciplinary Action against Bozena Rozum-Slota, M.D.
- Disciplinary Actions against Donald E. Soli, M.D.
- Questionable Activities of John E. Stauch, Ph.D.
- Disciplinary Action against Serafina Corsello, M.D.
- Index of State Board Disciplinary Actions
Links to Other Sites
This page was revised on May 15, 2004.
