When your doctor tells you or your child that you have 'lead poisoning', you may feel a little scared and worried. That's normal. But the best thing is, there are now effective treatments for this condition. Succimer is a special medicine that is given to treat such lead poisoning. In this article, we will talk simply about this medicine, how to use it, and things to be careful about.
What is this Succimer?
Simply put, Succimer is a drug that helps to bind toxic lead that has entered our body and remove it from the body. Think of it like a small magnet that finds and captures lead particles in the body. In medicine, we call this process 'chelation'. When this drug enters the body, it binds to (captures) harmful lead particles in the blood and makes a way for them to be excreted through the kidneys in the urine. This is how lead levels in the body are reduced.
The most important things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Your doctor will need to know your complete medical history before prescribing this medication. Therefore, if any of the following apply to you, be sure to tell your doctor.
- Kidney disease: This medicine is mostly excreted from the body through the kidneys. So if you have any kidney problems, it is very important to inform your doctor about it.
- Liver disease: People with liver disease should also be especially careful when using this medicine.
- Low blood cell count: If you have had previous reports of low white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets in your blood, please let us know.
- Allergies to Succimer or other medications: If you have ever had an allergy to this medication or any other medication, food, or dye, be sure to tell your doctor.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: If you are pregnant or planning to have a baby soon, talk to your doctor before starting this medication.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a breastfeeding mother, consult your doctor about whether taking this medicine can affect your baby through breast milk.
Telling your doctor this information without hiding it is very important for your safety as well as the success of your treatment.
How should I use the medicine?
Using this medicine correctly is essential for the success of the treatment.
- This medicine comes in the form of a capsule. Swallow the capsule with a glass of water.
- When giving to children: If your little one has difficulty swallowing this capsule, don't worry. You can open the capsule and sprinkle the medicine powder into something like yogurt, jam, or rice. Or you can mix it into a fruit drink.
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the time prescribed. Never take more than the prescribed dose or take it more frequently.
- Do not stop taking the medication without your doctor's advice.
Overdose
If you suddenly think you have taken too much medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What do you do if you miss a medication appointment?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
Some medications may interact with Succimer. In particular, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications:
- Dimercaprol
- Edetate calcium disodium (also known as calcium EDTA)
This list is not complete. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about any other medications, vitamins, herbs, or supplements you are taking. Also, tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Succimer can cause side effects in some people. Some of these require immediate attention, while others usually resolve on their own . It is important to be aware of these.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Changes in heart rate | Feeling like your heart is beating fast or your heartbeat is irregular. |
| Dizziness or fainting | Feeling lifeless, fainting, and like you're about to fall. |
| Fever or signs of infection | Fever, chills, and sore throat. |
| Neurological symptoms | Feeling of pain and numbness in the hands and feet. |
| Difficulty urinating | Decreased urine output or difficulty urinating. |
| Things to tell your doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| Digestive system problems | Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (diarrhea). |
| General inconveniences | Dizziness , headache, loss of appetite, feeling tired, and runny eyes or nose. |
What else should you be careful about when taking the medicine?
- Blood tests: Your doctor will likely order regular blood tests while you are taking this medicine. This will check to see if the medicine is working properly, if your lead levels are decreasing, and if there are any other side effects. Don't skip these tests.
- Dehydration: Tell your doctor if you have severe diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating, as excessive fluid loss from the body can be dangerous while taking this medication.
- Drowsiness: This medication may make some people feel drowsy or dizzy . Therefore, avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how this medication affects you.
Take-Home Message
- Succimer is a special medicine used to treat lead poisoning in the body.
- Before starting this medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and other medications you are taking.
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in the right amount, and at the right time. Never take two meals at the same time to make up for a missed meal.
- If you experience any severe side effects such as allergic symptoms, changes in heart rate, or fever, seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not share it with others for any reason.
- Always keep medicine in a safe place out of the reach of small children.
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