emeramide

Emeramide (NBMI) is a lipophilic, dithiolic metal chelator and antioxidant developed by EmeraMed. Chemically known as N1,N3-bis(2-mercaptoethyl)isophthalamide, it was designed to mimic the metal-binding properties of natural substances while maintaining high lipid solubility. This allows the molecule to cross the blood-brain barrier and penetrate cell membranes to reach intracellular heavy metal deposits. Emeramide binds with high affinity to soft metals, particularly mercury, forming stable, water-insoluble complexes that are excreted via the feces, thereby preventing the redistribution of toxins to the kidneys. Beyond chelation, the molecule's thiol groups allow it to function as a potent scavenger of hydroxyl radicals, potentially mitigating oxidative stress in neurodegenerative and inflammatory conditions. It has been granted orphan drug designation in both the US and EU for the treatment of mercury toxicity.

Brand names

Irminix

Other names

N1,N3-bis(2-mercaptoethyl)isophthalamideB9B-9B 9