So Much Writing, So Little Science: A Review of 37 Years of Literature on Edetate Sodium Chelation Therapy

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To determine the safety and efficacy of edetate sodium (ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid; EDTA) chelation therapy for atherosclerosis. METHODS: Literature search using MEDLINE, encompassing 1966 through May 1993. Further references were obtained from articles and books, and from citations obtained from the American Academy of Medical Preventics. RESULTS: 16 case reports or case series, 2 longitudinal studies, and 3 clinical trials were reviewed, along with testimonials cited in 19 books. CONCLUSIONS: Little valid scientific evidence is available. Although the postulated mechanisms of action for EDTA are biologically plausible and EDTA appears to be safe, it has not been proven effective. Indeed, the best evidence shows it to be ineffective. Therefore, EDTA chelation therapy should not be used in clinical practice to treat atherosclerosis.