What is the difference between DMSA and DMPS for mercury detox?

DMSA is an oral agent often used for mild to moderate toxicity, while DMPS can be administered orally or intravenously and is known for its high affinity for inorganic mercury. Both agents work by binding to mercury to allow for excretion through urine.

How do I know if I have mercury poisoning?

Common symptoms include brain fog, tremors, chronic fatigue, and anxiety. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through blood tests for recent exposure or a provoked urine test to measure the mercury stored in body tissues.

Chelation Therapy for Mercury Poisoning: What It Is, How It Works, and Who It Helps

Q: How long does chelation therapy for mercury take?

The duration of chelation therapy depends on the individual's mercury toxicity levels. Typically, patients undergo treatment cycles lasting between 3 to 6 months, which includes regular testing to monitor the reduction of heavy metal burden.

Q: Is chelation therapy safe?

Chelation therapy is considered safe when performed under professional medical supervision. It requires pre-treatment kidney screening and careful monitoring of mineral levels to prevent electrolyte imbalances or the redistribution of mercury.

Dr. Collins
Jan 28
3 min read

Content reviewed by Dr. Drew Collins, Naturopathic Doctor at Proactive Choice

Executive Summary: Chelation therapy is a medical protocol used to remove mercury and other heavy metals from the body. By using specific binding agents like DMSA or DMPS, the body can safely filter out toxins that cause "brain fog," fatigue, and neurological issues.

What is Mercury Poisoning?

Mercury poisoning occurs when mercury accumulates in the body’s tissues faster than the liver and kidneys can excrete it. Because mercury binds tightly to protein-rich tissues—specifically in the brain, kidneys, and nervous system—it often requires medical intervention to dislodge.

Common Sources of Exposure:

Dietary: High-mercury seafood (swordfish, king mackerel, tuna).
Dental: Silver-colored "amalgam" fillings.
Occupational: Industrial manufacturing or mining.
Environmental: Contaminated air, soil, or broken thermometers/fluorescent bulbs.

How Chelation Therapy Works

Chelation therapy works by introducing "chelating agents" into the bloodstream that act as chemical magnets. These molecules bind to mercury atoms, forming a stable complex that the body no longer recognizes as a threat. Once bound, the mercury is safely transported through the blood to the kidneys, where it is excreted via urine.

Agent	Administration	Primary Use Case
DMSA	Oral (Capsule)	Most common for mild to moderate mercury toxicity.
DMPS	Oral or IV	Highly effective for inorganic mercury; faster mobilization.
EDTA	Intravenous (IV)	Often used when lead or other heavy metals are also present.

Identifying Symptoms of Mercury Toxicity

Because mercury disrupts the endocrine and nervous systems, symptoms are often broad and misdiagnosed as "chronic fatigue" or "anxiety."

Cognitive: Brain fog, memory loss, and irritability.
Neurological: Tremors, muscle weakness, or tingling in hands/feet.
Systemic: Chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, and weakened immunity.
Physical: Metallic taste in the mouth or digestive distress.

Benefits and Risks: What to Expect

While chelation is the "gold standard" for heavy metal removal, it must be managed by a medical professional to ensure safety.

Key Benefits

Reduces Total Body Burden: Lowers the concentration of mercury in vital organs.
Neurological Recovery: Can lead to improved focus, mood stability, and motor control.
Vascular Health: Reducing oxidative stress from metals supports cardiovascular function.

Potential Side Effects

Mineral Depletion: Chelators can also bind to "good" minerals like zinc and calcium.
Detox Fatigue: Temporary fatigue as the body processes mobilized toxins.
Kidney Stress: High doses can strain the renal system if not properly hydrated.

Expert Note: At Proactive Choice, we use "pulsed dosing" (cycles of treatment followed by rest) and mineral supplementation to prevent these side effects and ensure a gentle recovery.

Supporting Your Detox Journey

Chelation therapy is most effective when part of a holistic protocol. To maximize results, we recommend:

Glutathione Support: To assist the liver in natural detoxification.
Hydration: Essential for flushing the mercury-chelator complex through the kidneys.
Infrared Saunas: To assist in excreting toxins through the skin.
Mineral Replenishment: High-quality supplementation of Zinc, Magnesium, and Selenium.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does chelation therapy for mercury take?

Treatment duration varies based on your toxicity levels. Typically, patients undergo cycles for 3 to 6 months, with regular testing to monitor progress.

2. Is chelation therapy safe?

When performed under medical supervision with pre-treatment kidney screening, chelation is considered safe. It is vital to avoid "DIY" chelation, which can lead to mercury redistributing into the brain.

3. How do I test for mercury poisoning?

We recommend a combination of blood tests (for recent exposure) and provoked urine tests (to measure stored tissue burden).

Start Your Recovery Today

Mercury poisoning is complex, but you don't have to navigate it alone. At Proactive Choice, we specialize in safe, individualized detoxification strategies designed to restore your vitality.

Ready to clear the fog? Schedule your FREE 10-minute consultation today. 📞 Call (858) 333-5196