"The defunct webpage, titled "Be Aware of Potentially Dangerous Products and Therapies that Claim to Treat Autism," provided parents and other consumers with an overview of the problem. It began with a short description of autism and some evidence-based, FDA-approved medications that can help manage autism symptoms. Then, the regulatory agency provided a list of some false claims and unproven, potentially dangerous treatments it had been working to combat. "Some of these so-called therapies carry significant health risks," the FDA wrote."
"Chelation is a real treatment for heavy metal poisoning, such as lead poisoning. But it has been co-opted by anti-vaccine activists and wellness gurus, who falsely claim it can treat autism, among other things. These sham treatments can come in a variety of forms, including sprays, suppositories, capsules, and liquid drops. Actual FDA-approved chelation therapy products are prescription only, the agency noted, and chelating certain minerals from the body "can lead to serious and life-threatening outcomes.""
The FDA previously maintained a webpage warning parents about false and potentially dangerous products and therapies claiming to treat autism. The page described autism, listed evidence-based, FDA-approved medications to manage symptoms, and named unproven treatments that pose significant health risks. The list included chelation and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, among others. Chelation, while legitimate for heavy metal poisoning, has been repurposed by anti-vaccine activists and wellness promoters in many unregulated forms. The FDA noted that approved chelation products require prescriptions and that inappropriate chelation can cause serious, life-threatening outcomes.
Read at Ars Technica
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