Presentation

250mg/5mL ampoule
SAS

Role

Management of patients with severe heavy metal poisoning (e.g. arsenic, mercury or lead) where parenteral therapy is required.

Medication box with the name Dimaval.

All cases should be discussed with a clinical toxicologist through local toxicology service or Poisons Information Centre 13 11 26.

Dose

Give 5mg/kg IV q8h on advice from a clinical toxicologist.

Stocking recommendations

Tertiary centre Regional centre Rural centre Remote centre
0 – 10 ampoules 0 ampoules 0 ampoules 0 ampoules

Rationale

Parenteral heavy metal chelation is rarely required.  Of the available parenteral chelators, DMPS has the best safety profile.  The current stocking recommendations reflect a pragmatic approach to antidote availability.  DMPS is not registered for use in Australia but is available via the Special Access Scheme.

Disclaimer

Fact sheet developed by Queensland Poisons Information Centre.

This fact sheet is about the use of these antidotes in Australia, and may not apply to other countries. Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of information, omissions of information, or any actions that may be taken as a consequence of reading this fact sheet.

Last updated: July 2023