Clinical Trial: Dimercaptosuccinic Acid (DMSA) Treatment of Children With Autism and Heavy Metal Toxicity
Study Status: Completed
Recruit Status: Completed
Study Type: Interventional
Official Title: DMSA Treatment of Children With Autism and Heavy Metal Toxicity
Brief Summary: Many children with autism have a reduced level of glutathione and a reduced ability to excrete mercury, resulting in elevated levels in their bodies as demonstrated by blood, hair, provoked urine, and baby tooth testing. Our earlier studies have demonstrated that DMSA, an FDA-approved medication for treating lead poisoning in children, is effective in increasing excretion of mercury and other toxic metals. Based on many clinical reports, we hypothesize that a 3-month treatment with glutathione and DMSA will result in a reduction of autistic symptoms in some children with autism.
Detailed Summary: This study will assess the safety and efficacy of the use of DMSA (an FDA-approved medication for treating lead poisoning in children) for the off-label treatment of symptoms of autism in children with autism and significant body burden of toxic metals.
Sponsor: Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine
Current Primary Outcome:
- Determine the effect of DMSA therapy on the symptoms of autism [ Time Frame: 4 month ]
- Determine the safety of DMSA therapy by pre/post assessment of complete blood count, standard chem panel including liver/kidney function, and excretion of essential minerals [ Time Frame: 4 months ]
Original Primary Outcome: Same as current
Current Secondary Outcome: Determine if the initial severity of autism correlates with the excretion of toxic metals [ Time Frame: 1 month ]
Original Secondary Outcome: Same as current
Information By: Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine
Dates:
Date Received: December 17, 2008
Date Started: May 2005
Date Completion:
Last Updated: December 17, 2008
Last Verified: December 2008
