Succimer

What it is and how it works

Mechanism of Action Succimer is a lead chelator; it forms water soluble chelates and, consequently, increases the urinary excretion of lead.

Mechanism class: Lead Chelating Activity

Indications

is indicated for the treatment of lead poisoning in pediatric patients aged 1 year and older with blood lead levels above 45 mcg/dL. CHEMET is a lead chelator indicated for the treatment of lead poisoning in pediatric patients aged 1 year and older with blood lead levels above 45 mcg/dL. Limitations of Use CHEMET is not indicated for prophylaxis of lead poisoning in a lead-containing environment. CHEMET does not cross the blood-brain barrier and is not indicated to treat encephalopathy associated with lead toxicity. Limitations of Use CHEMET is not indicated for prophylaxis of lead poisoning in a lead-containing environment. CHEMET does not cross the blood-brain barrier and is not indicated to treat encephalopathy associated with lead toxicity.

Dosage and administration (summary)

See Full Prescribing Information for important pretreatment evaluations. Ensure patients receiving CHEMET are adequately hydrated. Administer CHEMET capsules whole when possible. Pediatric patients who cannot swallow whole capsules: Sprinkle contents of capsule in food (or on a spoon followed by a drink). Recommended Dosage: 10 mg/kg or 350 mg/m 2 orally every 8 hours for five days followed by 10 mg/kg or 350 mg/m 2 orally every 12 hours for an additional 14 days. Important Pretreatment Evaluations Identify the source of lead in the pediatric patient's environment and eliminate the source prior to beginning treatment with CHEMET.

Contraindications

is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity reaction to succimer. Reactions have included mucocutaneous vesicular eruptions, urticaria, and angioedema . Patients with a history of hypersensitivity reaction to succimer.

Warnings and precautions

Hypersensitivity and dermatologic reactions: Interrupt treatment if rash or mucocutaneous vesicular eruptions occur. Neutropenia: Monitor complete blood counts, interrupt treatment for ANC below 1200/mcL, and monitor for infection. Hepatic Toxicity: Monitor hepatic transaminases (ALT/AST); interrupt treatment if above 5 times ULN. Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: May cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Hypersensitivity and Dermatologic Reactions CHEMET can cause hypersensitivity reactions and dermatologic reactions.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Risk Summary There are no studies with the use of CHEMET in pregnant women to inform drug-associated risks. Administration of CHEMET to pregnant mice during organogenesis at dose exposure of 11-times the human exposure at the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 700 mg based on body surface area (BSA) resulted in maternal toxicity and…

Storage and supply

Store between 15°C and 25°C and avoid excessive heat. Dispense in tight, light-resistant container.

Source: Succimer (Chemet) — US FDA prescribing information, 2025-07-10, DailyMed. Summarised and shortened; the full label governs. Iranian registration, indications and labelling may differ.