Calcium EDTA can be administered orally. True or False?

Calcium EDTA is not intended for oral administration, making the statement false. This chelating agent is primarily used in veterinary medicine through parenteral routes, such as intravenous or subcutaneous injections, to treat heavy metal toxicity, particularly lead poisoning. When administered intravenously, it can effectively bind to toxic metals in the bloodstream and facilitate their excretion through the kidneys.

Oral administration is generally not used due to potential gastrointestinal irritation and inadequate absorption that may not provide the therapeutic effects desired for treating heavy metal toxicity. In veterinary practice, ensuring the proper route and formulation for medication administration is crucial for the safety and efficacy of treatment, which is why the claim regarding oral administration of Calcium EDTA is inaccurate.