AutismWeb Forum

In the investigations, DMSA was given to 65 children with autism (ages 3 -8
years) to determine its effects. The researchers found that DMSA dramatically
increased excretion of several toxic metals, including a 10-fold increase in
excretion of lead. In terms of safety, the study found that there was no
adverse effect on standard safety tests, including no effect on kidney or
liver function.

Of greatest interest was a surprising finding that DMSA therapy had a dramatic
effect on glutathione levels. Glutathione is the body's primary defense
against toxic metals, and it was very abnormal in children with autism.
Treatment with DMSA for only 3 days normalized glutathione levels for at least
1-2 months in almost all children.

"Toxic metals are a common problem in autism, and I have personally observed that many of my patients with autism have greatly benefited from DMSA therapy. I hope this data answers the question that many physicians have: whether
chelation is safe and effective, and clearly it's both," says Dr. Matthew Baral. "This study shows that DMSA therapy is safe and effective, and should be considered as a possible treatment for children with autism who have significant body burden of toxic metals," says Prof. James Adams.