A: Compounded DMSA (Dimercaptosuccinic Acid) is used for chelation therapy to remove heavy metals like lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium from the body. It's commonly prescribed for detox protocols in patients with fatigue, brain fog, developmental delays, or confirmed metal toxicity.
DMSA
Personalized DMSA Detox for Heavy Metal Removal
What is DMSA and How does it work?
DMSA (Dimercaptosuccinic Acid) is an FDA-approved chelation therapy agent used to remove toxic heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium from the body. It works by using sulfur atoms to tightly bind to these metals, forming stable compounds that are safely excreted through the kidneys.
This heavy metal detoxification process reduces toxic load and helps protect vital systems, including the brain, heart, immune system, and nervous system. DMSA is especially effective in treating lead poisoning and is widely used in mercury detox protocols within functional medicine.
At Rock Ridge Pharmacy, we compound DMSA in various dosage forms—capsules, liquid, gel, and suppositories—to provide a personalized detox solution tailored to your needs and your healthcare provider’s guidance.
Top Benefits of Using DMSA for Heavy Metal Detox
DMSA is a well-established chelating agent that removes toxic heavy metals from the body. It is considered one of the most effective and safest oral chelators available and is widely used in both conventional and functional medicine practices.
DMSA is a trusted option for patients with heavy metal exposure, especially lead, recommended by leading public health institutions such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and recognized in peer-reviewed research supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Effective Chelation of Heavy Metals
DMSA binds to heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium, forming stable complexes that are safely eliminated through the urine. This helps reduce metal toxicity levels in the body and supports long-term health.
FDA-Approved for Lead Poisoning
DMSA is one of the few chelating agents FDA-approved for treating lead poisoning in both children and adults. It is part of first-line treatment recommendations by the CDC for elevated blood lead levels.
Oral Administration for Ease of Use
Unlike chelators that require intravenous (IV) delivery, DMSA is available in convenient oral forms such as capsules, suspensions, and chewable tablets. This makes it easier for pediatric use, home protocols, and long-term detox programs.
Supports Cognitive and Neurological Function
Heavy metals are known contributors to brain fog, memory loss, and neurological dysfunction. By reducing metal burden, DMSA may help improve focus, mood, and cognitive performance—particularly in individuals with chronic exposure or neurotoxic symptoms.
Reduces Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Heavy metal accumulation contributes to oxidative stress, which can damage DNA, lipids, and proteins. DMSA chelation has been shown to lower oxidative markers and reduce inflammation, supporting the body’s natural detoxification and healing processes.
Compounded DMSA Dosage Forms at Rock Ridge Pharmacy
At Rock Ridge Pharmacy, we specialize in custom-compounded DMSA formulations designed to support safe and effective heavy metal detoxification. Each patient’s needs are unique, which is why we offer multiple DMSA dosage forms to ensure optimal comfort, absorption, and therapeutic results.
Oral Capsules
Capsules are the most commonly used form of DMSA. They’re convenient, easy to take, and allow for precise daily dosing, making them ideal for adults who can comfortably swallow pills and require consistent chelation support.
Oral Liquid – 50 mg/ml
Our 50 mg/mL oral liquid is ideal for children, elderly patients, or anyone with difficulty swallowing pills. This customizable format allows for flexible dosing and is perfect for patients who need a titrated or lower-dose regimen.
Transdermal Gel – 150 mg/0.5 ml
This unique transdermal gel is absorbed through the skin, providing a steady release of DMSA while bypassing the digestive tract. It’s ideal for patients who experience GI side effects or need an alternative to oral therapy.
Rectal Suppositories
For patients with severe gastrointestinal sensitivities or who require rapid systemic absorption, we offer DMSA in suppository form. This route bypasses oral administration and supports targeted, systemic delivery.
How DMSA Detox Protocols Work
DMSA is widely used in functional medicine and chelation therapy to support heavy metal detoxification. According to trusted clinical frameworks, DMSA is best taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water to optimize absorption and chelation efficiency. Most detox protocols follow a cyclic dosing schedule—typically 3 to 4 days on DMSA followed by 10 to 11 days off—allowing the liver, kidneys, and detox pathways to recover between rounds.
Adequate hydration and supplementation with essential nutrients—such as zinc, magnesium, vitamin C, and glutathione—are vital to replace minerals that DMSA may also bind to and eliminate. Functional medicine providers often combine DMSA with antioxidant support, lifestyle changes, and personalized nutrition to enhance detox outcomes and reduce oxidative stress.
Regular lab monitoring, including complete blood counts, liver function tests, and mineral panels, is strongly recommended to ensure safety throughout the process. These practices align with guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and their recommendations for medical management of lead toxicity and chelation therapy.
At Rock Ridge Pharmacy, we offer custom-compounded DMSA in multiple forms—including capsules, liquid, gel, and suppositories—and work closely with healthcare providers to tailor detox regimens for each patient’s unique needs.
- Contact Our Team for Personalized Detox Support
Integrating DMSA into Functional Medicine Detox Protocols
At Rock Ridge Pharmacy, we collaborate with functional medicine practitioners to create customized DMSA detox regimens based on individual exposure levels, lab markers, and long-term health goals. These protocols often combine DMSA with targeted antioxidant support, essential nutrients, hydration strategies, and liver-supportive supplements to enhance detoxification and reduce oxidative stress. By aligning personalized compounding with root-cause care, we help patients experience a safer, more effective detox journey.
Optimize Your DMSA Detox with Targeted Supplement Support
Compounded DMSA is a powerful tool for heavy metal detox but pairing it with the right supplements can enhance safety and effectiveness. At Rock Ridge Pharmacy, we recommend supporting your detox protocol with NAC (N‑Acetyl‑L‑Cysteine) 600 mg to boost glutathione and protect the liver, Magnesium Glycinate Plus to promote relaxation and prevent mineral loss, and Zinc Picolinate 30 mg to restore essential nutrients. Add Liposomal Glutathione to protect against oxidative stress and Trace Minerals Complex to replenish vital cofactors lost during chelation. Together, these supplements play a key role in supporting DMSA chelation therapy safely enhancing detox results while protecting your health.
Is DMSA Safe? Common and Rare Side Effects Explained
When using DMSA for heavy metal detoxification, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. While generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience mild detox symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, or skin rashes. These effects are often temporary and resolve as the body adapts to the treatment.
Less commonly, patients may develop fever, elevated liver enzymes, or neutropenia (a drop in white blood cell count), which underscores the importance of routine lab monitoring during chelation therapy. These adverse effects are rare but should be taken seriously under physician and pharmacist guidance.
Proper Storage of Compounded DMSA
Store DMSA at room temperature (68°F–77°F) in a cool, dry place, away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Keep the container tightly sealed and in its original labeled packaging. Do not refrigerate or freeze unless instructed. Always store out of reach of children and pets. If you notice any changes in the medication, contact our pharmacists for guidance.
Why Choose Rock Ridge Pharmacy for Compounded DMSA
Customized Detox Formulations: At Rock Ridge Pharmacy, we compound DMSA into capsules, liquids, gels, or suppositories based on your specific heavy metal exposure, health history, and treatment goals—delivering personalized dosing for safe, effective detoxification.
USP <800>-Compliant Quality: Every compounded DMSA medication is prepared in our USP <795>/<800>-compliant cleanroom. We follow strict protocols to ensure pharmaceutical-grade purity, accurate dosing, and safe handling—meeting or exceeding industry standards.
Pharmacist + Provider Support: Our pharmacists work directly with your provider to align your detox plan with clinical goals. We offer ongoing support, including patient education, lab coordination, and dose adjustments—so you’re supported at every step.
Cost of Compounded DMSA at Rock Ridge Pharmacy
At Rock Ridge Pharmacy, the cost of compounded DMSA depends on several factors, including the dosage form, strength, and the level of personalization required. We offer a wide range of custom-compounded options—oral capsules (12.5 mg to 500 mg), liquid formulations (50 mg/mL), and transdermal gels (150 mg/0.5 mL)—designed to meet each patient’s unique therapeutic needs.
Every formulation is prepared in our USP <795>/<800>-compliant compounding lab, ensuring the highest standards of purity, safety, and pharmaceutical precision. Our expert compounding team works closely with your provider to deliver medication that is not only effective but also well-tolerated and convenient.
Our pricing reflects the advanced quality and customization that goes into each preparation. To receive a quote tailored to your prescription, or to learn more about dosing options, we welcome you to reach out.
For a personalized quote, contact our pharmacy team or call 201-444-4190 Or email us directly at info@rockridgepharmacy.com
Pharmacist-Guided DMSA Care
At Rock Ridge Pharmacy, we go beyond compounding — we deliver personalized detox care backed by clinical precision. From custom DMSA formulations (capsules, liquids, gels, suppositories) to USP <800>-compliant standards, every dose is crafted for safety, purity, and effectiveness.
Our pharmacists work closely with your healthcare provider to ensure proper dosing; help monitor progress and provide ongoing guidance throughout your detox journey. Whether you’re treating lead, mercury, or other heavy metal exposure, we’re here to support you with expertise, compassion, and tailored solutions.
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FAQs About Compounded DMSA at Rock Ridge Pharmacy
A: Commercial DMSA comes in limited strengths, but compounded DMSA is personalized in capsules, liquids, gels, or suppositories to match your unique dosage, age, and tolerance—ideal for children, sensitive patients, or those with GI issues.
A: Most patients tolerate DMSA well, but mild side effects like nausea, diarrhea, rashes, or fatigue may occur. Rare but serious side effects include elevated liver enzymes and low white blood cell counts, which require lab monitoring during treatment.
A: Most protocols follow a 3–4 day “on” / 10–11 day “off” cycle. This allows the body to detox without overwhelming elimination pathways and gives time to replenish nutrients lost during chelation.
A: Yes, under medical supervision. Pediatric DMSA detox is typically prescribed for lead poisoning and uses oral liquids for flexible dosing. Our pharmacy works with pediatric providers to ensure safe and effective treatment.
A: Take DMSA on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. Store at 68–77°F in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Keep the container tightly sealed and out of reach of children and pets.
A: Yes. Providers recommend checking liver function, kidney markers, and white blood cell counts during detox to ensure safety and monitor for rare side effects.
A: Pricing depends on dosage form and strength. Rock Ridge Pharmacy offers capsules (12.5–500 mg), liquid (50 mg/mL), and gel (150 mg/0.5 mL) options. Call 201-444-4190 or email info@rockridgepharmacy.com for a quote.
A: Yes, DMSA binds to several heavy metals at once. However, providers may focus on one metal at a time—like mercury or lead—based on lab results to avoid overburdening the detox process.
A: DMSA is FDA-approved for lead poisoning, available in oral and transdermal forms, and better tolerated than intravenous options like EDTA or DMPS. It’s preferred in functional medicine due to its safety, ease of use, and effectiveness.
Ways to Send In Prescriptions for Compounded DMSA
1. Fax
Write a prescription on a prescription pad and fax over to 201-444-2698
We'll take care of the rest!
2. E-Scribe
E-Rx (E-scribe) to “Rock Ridge Pharmacy”
Make sure our address is 191 Rock Rd, Glen Rock, NJ 07452.
3. Call
- Call in your prescription to
- 201-444-4190.
We want to make sure it's as easy as possible for our patients!
4. Telemedicine
Rock Ridge Pharmacy, in partnership with Physician 360, offers convenient on-demand telemedicine consultations for DMSA detoxification and other conditions.
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