What is Chemet?
Chemet is used for treating lead intoxication.Chemet is an agent that chelates (KEE-lates) lead in the blood, allowing it to pass out through the urine.This medication guide does not list all possible uses for Chemet.
Side effects of Chemet
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
Chemet may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Difficulty breathing; symptoms of a cold or flu;
- Skin sores, rash,
- Swollen gums and painful mouth sores Pain when swallowing.
Side effects of Chemet include:
- Nausea; vomiting; loss of appetite
- Diarrhoea;
- Metallic taste in the mouth
There may be other side effects. Call your physician if experiencing side effects; for FDA reporting purposes call them on 800-FDA-1088 or send in your report online.
Similar/related drugs
Succimer, calcium disodium versenate
Warnings
Please read and heed all instructions printed on the label or package of your medication carefully, informing healthcare providers about any medical conditions, allergies and medicines being used by you.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to Chemet, it is best not to use this product.
Inform your physician immediately of any of the following issues:
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Treatment with dimercaprol and calcium disodium edetate
Chemet can harm an unborn child. Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant.Breast-feeding is not recommended while using Chemet.
How to take Chemet?
Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow the directions. Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. You must take the medication exactly as prescribed.If you can't swallow the capsule, open it up and sprinkle some of the medicine on a soft spoonful. As soon as the mixture has been prepared, it should be consumed without chewing. Don't save the mixture for later.You can also pour the medicine beads into a teaspoon, swallow the beads, and then drink some juice or a fruit-flavoured beverage.Keep your kidneys healthy by drinking plenty of fluids. They will help you eliminate lead from your system.Chemet is typically given every day for 19 consecutive days. As it may take multiple treatments for you to experience relief, make sure that you take this medication on an ongoing basis for maximum effect. For maximum efficiency and results.
Do not stop taking the medicine before it is completely cleared from your body. You may experience symptoms before all the lead has been removed from your body.Your doctor may need to perform medical tests in order to determine the length of time you should be treated with Chemet.It can also affect certain medical tests. Inform any doctor that treats you about Chemet.If your symptoms don't improve or worsen while taking Chemet, call your doctor.Chemet can reduce the number of blood cells that fight infection. You may be more susceptible to getting sick. You may need to test your blood cells often.Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
Avoid coming into contact with the source or location once you have determined where or how you acquired the lead.Avoid being around people who are ill or infected. If you notice any signs of infection, tell your doctor immediately.
Interaction with other drug
Chemet may be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.
