General Information & Instructions

Intravenous EDTA chelation therapy has been shown to benefit the body in many different ways. Here are some examples: removal of calcium from arteries and veins, removal of heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic etc..), increase in cellular energy production, lowering of the blood pressure and improvement of many metabolic functions. This is an extremely safe and effective treatment when administered properly and with the necessary periodic examinations. There are a few measures that when followed, help minimize the risk of side effects, complications and general discomfort.

1. After every 5-10 chelation treatments, a blood sample from you will be drawn and sent to a lab for routine chemistry testing. This is done for your safety so that any possible negative effects of the infusions on your kidneys, liver, blood etc.. can be determined and appropriately dealt with.
2. After every 1-5 chelation treatments, a urine sample from you will be collected and tested. This is done to monitor general kidney function.
3. Prior to every infusion, an assistant will measure your weight, temperature, blood pressure and heart rate. If you are not feeling well that day for any reason, or your health has negatively changed since the last chelation treatment, or you experience some negative signs or symptoms during the treatment, please report any and all concerns to the available clinic staff.
4. After every 5th chelation infusion, two consecutive “Mineral Replacement” IV’s will be administered in place of the routine chelation IV’s. Since the chelating process does remove some “good nutrients” as well as “bad” ones, intravenous replacement prevents significant mineral deficiencies from occurring. Lowered mineral status symptoms can begin with leg cramps, fatigue, weakness, twitching and poor wound healing.
5. Further to point #4, it is mandatory that you orally supplement the appropriate vitamins and minerals. These nutrients are best purchased from our clinic pharmacy so that the potency, quantity and quality can be monitored. Please advise the staff when refills of the supplements are required and do so before you actually run out.
6. On the day of the chelation treatment do not take any minerals or multi-vitamins containing minerals in them. The chelation infusion will only “flush” many of them out. It is okay to resume oral mineral supplementation the next morning and this must be continued on non-chelation treatment days. Vitamins by themselves, without minerals, can be taken throughout the therapy at any time.
7. It is mandatory that you eat a moderate, protein rich meal prior to coming for your infusion. This prevents hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) form occurring: dizziness, lightheadedness, headaches, confusion, fatigue etc..)
8. It is highly recommended that you bring a snack along with you to consume during the chelation treatment. Again, non-sweet, high protein foods are more advisable as they reduce hypoglycemic tendencies.
9. Since treatments are about 3 hours in duration, you may want to bring along something to break-up the monotony (reading material, personal radio etc..)
10. Sleeping during an infusion is not permitted. It would be difficult for the staff to differentiate between your eyes being closed because you have fallen asleep or because you have passed out.
11. If you need to use the bathroom, please ask one of the staff for assistance.
12. It is not uncommon to have vein irritation from the IV needle &/or solution. If you find your hand/arm becoming sore or achey during the treatment, mention that to one of the staff. A hot pack or repositioning of the needle may be all that is required to remedy the problem. Bruising at the needle site after needle removal is not unusual. This can be prevented by compressing the site firmly with a cotton ball for 4-6 minutes after needle removal. Patients on blood thinners, aspirin or steriods may bruise more then usual.
13. There is magnesium in the IV solution. Magnesium can cause a warm, flushing feeling, relaxation and tiredness. These symptoms are not related to magnesium toxicity. The tiredness can last for several hours post treatment. Generally it is advised that some one else drive you home.
14. Exercise enhances circulatory health and compliments the chelation treatments. Aerobic activities performed 3-5 times weekly significantly improve the heart, lung and muscles, not to mention the mood, energy and brain function. So do it.
15. Smoking is absolutely prohibited during chelation therapy. It counteracts much of the benefit this treatment is trying to accomplish. Ask for help and kick the addiction now.
16. If you are overweight, make a commitment, take charge and do what it takes to lose the extra weight. Eat healthy, exercise regularly and be consistent. We can help you with your metabolism if need be. Obesity is a major risk factor for almost everything and automatically determines the need for more chelation treatments then usual to get the same effect.
17. Do not stop taking any medication you have been prescribed by your MD unless okayed by Dr. Swetlikoff and/or the prescribing physician. Doing so may be counter productive and dangerous. On the other hand, please advise Dr. Swetlikoff when there are changes made to the current medical prescriptions you are taking.
18. A course of treatments usually consists of 30 IV infusions. Some patients will require more if their situation warrants it. Follow-up treatments are best maintained at one infusion every 4-5 weeks thereafter. This continues the therapeutic effects.
19. During the chelating process your condition may benefit from other examinations and therapies. What ever is helpful to your assessment, monitoring or therapeutic success will be suggested to you.

Chelation therapy is an investment in (time & money) into your own health. Your diet, lifestyle and behavior directly influence the success of this therapy. Only you have control over these factors. Focus, motivation, discipline and hard work are attributes to a good outcome.

Do not hesitate to ask questions that have not been answered by this handout. Good luck and good health.

I have read and understand the above mentioned information.

Name: ________________________________

Date: _________________

Witness: ______________________