Major Research Findings

Chelation therapy is a common treatment for coronary artery disease, but its effectiveness and safety are debated. 5 investigated patients' beliefs and opinions regarding chelation therapy and found that many patients expressed concerns about inadequate communication with their physicians and a lack of sufficient information regarding chelation therapy. The study also pointed out a shortage of clinical trials evaluating the safety and effectiveness of chelation therapy. Meanwhile, 2 suggests that paracetamol might be a more effective and less side-effect-prone treatment for osteoarthritis pain and inflammation compared to traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), due to its distinct mechanism of action. 4 suggests that massage may be an effective and safe complementary therapy for knee osteoarthritis. Massage may help reduce pain, improve range of motion, and enhance quality of life. Furthermore, 1 compared the safety and efficacy of nimesulide and diclofenac for osteoarthritis of the hip and knee joints and found that nimesulide could be an effective and safe treatment option for osteoarthritis. However, the study was relatively small, and further research is needed.

Reasons for side effects

Chelation therapy works by removing metals from the body, which is thought to help treat heart disease. However, chelation therapy can also remove essential minerals from the body, leading to various side effects. Chelation therapy used for treating heart disease in particular, may increase the risk of cardiovascular side effects.

Common Side Effects

Gastrointestinal

Chelation therapy can cause side effects in the digestive system. For example, 3 reported that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause gastrointestinal side effects. Chelation therapy may cause symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.

Cardiovascular

Chelation therapy can cause side effects in the cardiovascular system. For example, 5 reports that there is insufficient scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of chelation therapy for heart disease. Chelation therapy may cause symptoms such as changes in heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat.

Nervous system

Chelation therapy can cause side effects in the nervous system. For example, chelation therapy may cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness, fatigue, numbness, and paralysis.

Kidneys

Chelation therapy can cause side effects in the kidneys. For example, chelation therapy may cause symptoms such as kidney dysfunction, changes in urine volume, and protein in the urine.

Side Effects Management

Gastrointestinal side effects

To reduce gastrointestinal side effects, it is essential to make dietary and lifestyle changes. For example, it's crucial to choose easily digestible foods and eat smaller portions. Additionally, lifestyle changes like refraining from alcohol and smoking can be beneficial.

Cardiovascular side effects

To reduce cardiovascular side effects, it's important to follow the doctor's instructions and have regular health checkups. If you have cardiovascular diseases, consult your doctor and receive appropriate treatment.

Nervous system side effects

To reduce nervous system side effects, getting enough rest and sleep is crucial. It's also effective to find ways to manage stress and avoid accumulating it.

Kidney side effects

To reduce kidney side effects, it's vital to drink plenty of fluids. If you have kidney dysfunction, consult your doctor and receive appropriate treatment.

Comparison of Studies

Commonalities among studies

These studies all explore new approaches to treating coronary artery disease. They also aim to reduce side effects and improve safety.

Differences among studies

These studies each differ in their respective treatment methods and targeted diseases. For example, 3 aims to develop new drugs that reduce side effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Conversely, 5 aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of chelation therapy. These studies approach the development of coronary artery disease treatments from distinct perspectives.

Practical Implications

Numerous methods exist for treating coronary artery disease. While chelation therapy is one such method, it's crucial to verify its effectiveness and safety thoroughly. Chelation therapy should be performed under the guidance of a physician.

Limitations of Current Research

Research on coronary artery disease treatments remains insufficient. Chelation therapy, in particular, is still under debate regarding its effectiveness and safety, necessitating further research.

Future Research Directions

Further research is needed for the development of coronary artery disease treatments. Large-scale clinical trials are needed, specifically to validate the safety and effectiveness of chelation therapy. Alongside the development of new treatments, research on reducing side effects of existing treatments is also vital.

Conclusion

Treatment options for coronary artery disease are constantly evolving. While chelation therapy is one such option, its effectiveness and safety must be thoroughly evaluated. If considering chelation therapy, consult your doctor and receive appropriate treatment.