Dimercaprol

Dimercaprol: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Chelates heavy metals.

Uses of Dimercaprol

• The treatment of acute toxicity caused by arsenic, gold, bismuth, and mercury.
• The treatment of lead poisoning as an adjuvant (together with edetate calcium disodium).

Dose of Dimercaprol in Dogs and Cats

Dogs, Cats:

• Heavy metal toxicity: 2.5–5 mg/kg i.m. q4h for 2 days, then progressively increase the dosing interval to q12h until recovery.
• (Note: the 5 mg/kg dose should only be used on the first day when severe acute intoxication occurs.) Aggressive supportive therapy should be maintained throughout the treatment period.

Side Effects of Dimercaprol in Dogs and Cats

• Intramuscular injections are excruciating.
• Dimercaprol-metal complexes are nephrotoxic.
• This is particularly relevant for iron, selenium, and cadmium; avoid using for these metals.
• Alkalinization of urine during treatment may have kidney-protective effects.

Contraindications of Dimercaprol in Dogs and Cats

• Severe hepatic failure.

Some Notes:

• Iron salts should not be administered during therapy.