What is this medicine?
DIMERCAPROL (dahy mer KAP rawl) binds with heavy metals in the body. It is used to treat arsenic, mercury, gold, and lead poisoning.
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What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
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They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
-G6PD deficiency
-iron, cadmium, or selenium poisoning
-kidney disease
-liver disease
-an unusual or allergic reaction to dimercaprol, peanuts, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
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This medicine is for injection into a muscle. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
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This does not apply.
What may interact with this medicine?
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Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
-cadmium
-gold compounds like auranofin, aurothioglucose
-iron salts or supplements
-selenium
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
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Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.
You may need to follow a special diet for a short time after you take this medicine. Follow your doctor or health care professional's instructions carefully.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
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Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
-allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
-pain or tightness in the chest, hands or throat
-fast, irregular heartbeat
-fever
-high blood pressure
-irritation, pain at site where injected
-seizures
-sweating
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
-burning sensation of the lips, mouth, throat, or penis
-headache
-increase in saliva, tears
-nausea, vomiting
-runny nose
-stomach pain
Where should I keep my medicine?
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This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.