Chemet?
(succimer) capsules
* Chemet is a chelating agent.
* Chemet is available for oral administration in 100 mg capsules.
Indication
CHEMET? is indicated for the treatment of lead poisoning in pediatric patients with blood lead levels above 45 ?g/dL. CHEMET is not indicated for prophylaxis of lead poisoning in a lead-containing environment the use of CHEMET should always be accompanied by identification and removal of the source of the lead exposure.
Important Safety Information
CHEMET should not be administered to patients with a history of allergy to the drug.
CHEMET is not a substitute for effective abatement of lead exposure. Mild to moderate neutropenia has been observed in some patients. A complete blood count with white blood cell differential and direct platelet counts should be obtained prior to and weekly during treatment. Patients should be carefully observed and instructed to report any signs of infection.
Elevated blood lead levels and associated symptoms may return rapidly after discontinuation of therapy. After therapy, patients should be monitored for rebound of blood levels, by measuring blood levels at least once weekly until stable. The severity of lead intoxication should be used as a guide for more frequent blood lead monitoring.
Caution should be exercised in patients with compromised renal function and a history of liver disease. Patients should be well hydrated. Serum transaminases should be monitored before the start of therapy and at least weekly in patients with compromised renal function. Dosing longer than three weeks is not recommended. The possibility of allergic or other mucocutaneous reactions must be borne in mind. Patients requiring repeated courses of therapy should be monitored during each treatment course.
CHEMET should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Nursing mothers requiring CHEMET therapy should be discouraged from nursing their infants.
The most common adverse events have been gastrointestinal symptoms, increases in serum transaminases and rash (some requiring discontinuation of therapy). Mild to moderate neutropenia has been reported in some patients.
