Dimercaprol – British anti lewisite (BAL)

Dimercaprol, also known as British anti lewisite (BAL) is a chelating agent used in the treatment of heavy metal poising (those which act by inhibiting the SH group containing enzymes). It has two SH (sulfhydryl) groups which can bind to these atoms. It can form 1:1 or 2:1 complex with metals, 2:1 being more stable. It can be used used in the treatment of poisoning by arsenic, antimony, bismuth, copper and gold. Dimercaprol is used along with penicillamine in the treatment of lead poisoning and also in the treatment of Wilson’s disease.