EDTA stands for ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, which is a molecule called a chelating agent. A chelating agent is a claw-like substance that can grab and stick to other molecules. EDTA can stick to calcium and other metals, such as lead. EDTA is sometimes prescribed by doctors to clean toxic metals, such as lead, from the blood. It is used in the management and treatment of heavy metal toxicity. EDTA is also an ingredient in some prescription cancer-fighting medicines. Some people take EDTA to try to treat diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, Alzheimers disease, and other conditions, but evidence is lacking that EDTA works for those conditions. EDTA is a synthetic chemical and not found naturally. EDTA is used in many different industries to remove toxic metal ions. EDTA is also used intravenously for heart and blood vessel conditions, including irregular heartbeat, chest pain, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and blood circulation problems. EDTA is safe when used as directed.