NCIt definition : The disodium salt form of edetate, a heavy metal chelating agent with anti-hypercalcemic
and anti-arrhythmic properties. Edetate, a heavy metal antagonist, chelates divalent
and trivalent metals, forming soluble stable complexes which are readily excreted
by the kidneys, thereby can be used to lower serum calcium concentrations. In addition,
this agent exerts a negative inotropic effect on the heart through a transiently induced
hypocalcemic state, thereby antagonizing the inotropic and chronotropic effects of
digitalis glycosides on the ventricles of the heart. Upon ocular administration, edetate
exerts its ophthalmic effect by chelating calcium to form soluble complexes, thereby
removing corneal calcium deposits.;