Dimercaprol Injection

What is this medication?

DIMERCAPROL (dahy mer KAP rawl) treats arsenic, gold, mercury, and lead poisoning. It works by binding to these metals so your body can remove them through the urine.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): BAL in Oil

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• G6PD deficiency
• Iron, cadmium, or selenium poisoning
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• An unusual or allergic reaction to dimercaprol, peanuts, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is injected into a muscle. It is given by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. This medication is not for regular use.

What may interact with this medication?

• Cadmium
• Gold compounds, such as auranofin or aurothioglucose
• Iron salts or supplements
• Selenium

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication.

You may need to be on a special diet while you are taking this medication. Ask your care team.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Kidney injury—decrease in the amount of urine, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Headache
• Increase in blood pressure
• Increased tears
• Nausea
• Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site
• Stomach pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This medication is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.