zinc diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid

Zinc diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (Zn-DTPA) is a small molecule chelating agent indicated for the treatment of individuals with known or suspected internal contamination with transuranic radioactive elements, specifically plutonium, americium, or curium. By forming stable, water-soluble complexes with these metal ions, Zn-DTPA facilitates their elimination from the body through renal excretion, thereby reducing the internal radiation dose. Approved by the U.S. FDA in 2004, it is administered either by intravenous injection or by nebulizer for inhalation contamination. Zn-DTPA is particularly preferred for maintenance therapy or when treatment begins more than 24 hours after contamination, as it is less likely than calcium-DTPA to deplete essential endogenous trace metals such as zinc and manganese.

Brand names

Pentetate zinc trisodium

Other names

zinc-DTPApentetate zinczinc pentetic acid