I think DMSA can make you "feel" better sometimes because it's picking up the mercury already floating around in your blood. But sometimes it can stir symptoms up as well. I found a combination with it.

It removes the mercury on the outside of cells. ALA removes the mercury inside. I think this is why ALA can cause more symptoms for many people and why Andy suggests using it with DMSA if that be the case. If the DMSA helps.

But apparently ALA doesn't suppress side effects, but Andy reckons it's the main chelator and is essential. He does not believe DMSA is essential....but it worked for me!