Prescription
Prescription RequiredCompoundedDMSA (Succimer) Capsules
DMSA (succimer) is a chelating agent that binds certain heavy metals, especially lead, so the body can remove them in the urine. This compounded product should only be used for an approved medical purpose under close medical supervision, with follow-up lab testing as directed.
Requires a valid prescription from your provider. Not sure if it's right for you? Ask a pharmacist.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Compounded products are not FDA-approved and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary. This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice — always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.
Clinical information
Medication information for patients and providers.
Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. The dose and length of treatment depend on your condition, lab results, age, and body weight. Swallow the capsule as directed. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time. Keep all lab and follow-up visits during treatment.
Succimer is a chelating medicine. It attaches to certain heavy metals in the body, especially lead, and forms a complex that can be removed in the urine. This helps lower the amount of metal in the blood over time. It does not work instantly, and treatment response is checked with blood and urine tests. Patients may not feel an immediate change, but lab values should improve as the metal level drops. The medicine starts binding metal after it is absorbed, and it is usually cleared from the body within about 1 to 2 days, but the full treatment effect depends on the total course prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Do not use if you are allergic to succimer or any ingredient in the compounded capsule, because a serious allergic reaction may occur. Do not use unless it has been prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare provider. Do not use for self-treatment or general 'detox' purposes. Do not use if you have severe kidney problems unless your healthcare provider decides the benefit outweighs the risk, because the body removes the metal-drug complex through the kidneys. Use caution and discuss risks first if you have liver disease, a history of low white blood cell counts, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Safety in very young children should be determined by a specialist, based on the approved use and careful monitoring.
This medication may interact with other products that affect the liver, kidneys, or blood counts. Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, minerals, and herbal products you use. Moderate interaction risk: other chelating agents or mineral products such as iron, zinc, copper, calcium, and magnesium may affect treatment planning, because succimer can bind metals and may change mineral levels. Moderate interaction risk: medicines that can affect the liver or bone marrow may raise the chance of abnormal lab results, so extra monitoring may be needed. Avoid starting supplements or 'detox' products unless your healthcare provider approves them. Alcohol may increase stomach upset or strain on the liver, so limit or avoid it during treatment.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach discomfort, and a mild rash. Some patients may notice a metallic taste or tiredness. Common lab changes can include mild increases in liver tests. Less common but important side effects include fever, sore throat, or signs of infection, which may suggest a low white blood cell count and need urgent medical advice. Rare but serious reactions include severe rash, allergic reaction, trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe skin peeling. Contact your healthcare provider right away if you develop these symptoms. Many mild stomach-related side effects improve during treatment or after the medicine is stopped.
Store at room temperature, preferably 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C), unless your pharmacist gives different instructions for this compounded product. Keep in a tightly closed container and protect from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not store in the bathroom, near a sink, or in a hot car. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the beyond-use date on the label. Dispose of unused or expired capsules through a pharmacy take-back program when available.
Frequently asked questions.
Succimer is used to help remove certain heavy metals, especially lead, from the body. It should only be used when prescribed by a healthcare provider who is checking your lab results and response to treatment.
Not always. This medicine works by lowering metal levels in the body, and the main way to see progress is through lab testing. Some people feel better over time, but improvement can vary based on how high the metal level was and how long it has been present.
Tell your healthcare provider about all vitamins and supplements before you start. Succimer can bind to some metals and may affect mineral balance, so your provider may want to adjust when you take supplements or avoid some during treatment.
Mild nausea, stomach pain, or diarrhea can happen. Follow your prescriber's directions carefully, stay hydrated, and contact your healthcare provider if stomach symptoms are severe, do not improve, or keep you from taking the medicine.
Yes. Your healthcare provider may order blood tests to check metal levels, liver function, and blood cell counts during treatment. These tests help make sure the medicine is working and remains safe for you.
No. This medicine should not be used for general detox, wellness cleansing, or any use not directed by a licensed healthcare provider. Using it without a clear medical reason and proper monitoring may be unsafe.
Tell your healthcare provider right away if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. The risks and benefits must be reviewed carefully before treatment, because heavy metal exposure and treatment both require medical guidance.
Store them at room temperature in a dry place away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the container tightly closed and follow the beyond-use date printed on the pharmacy label.
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