Used as an antidote for heavy metal poisoning, particularly effective in cases involving arsenic, mercury, and lead. It functions by chelating toxic metals, forming water-soluble complexes that are excreted through urine, thereby reducing metal accumulation in vital organs. Commonly administered in clinical settings following acute exposure or in chronic poisoning cases where metal detoxification is required. Its esterified form enhances lipid solubility, allowing better tissue penetration and improved bioavailability compared to non-esterified analogs. Also investigated for use in mitigating oxidative stress associated with metal toxicity due to the presence of thiol groups that can scavenge free radicals.