DTPA

Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) is a chelating agent that binds to and removes heavy metals, radioactive materials, and poisons from the body. It's used in medicine, water treatment, and other applications.

How DTPA works 

• DTPA binds to metals in the extracellular space
• It prevents metals from entering cells and accumulating in tissues
• It helps the body pass out metals in urine

Uses of DTPA

· Medicine

DTPA is used to treat heavy metal poisoning and to mobilize radioactive materials like plutonium and americium 

· Water treatment

DTPA is used in water treatment to form soluble complexes with heavy metal ions 

· Other applications

DTPA is used in pulp and paper manufacturing, agrochemicals, photographic chemicals, and more 

DTPA safety 

• DTPA is generally considered low in chemical reactivity
• DTPA can remove essential metals, such as manganese and magnesium
• DTPA can be administered intravenously or inhaled
• DTPA can cause cough or wheezing in people with asthma