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Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Penicillamine is prescribed to address various medical conditions. It is utilized for Wilson’s disease, cystinuria, and rheumatoid arthritis. Belonging to the class of medications called heavy metal antagonists, penicillamine operates differently based on the conditions it treats. For Wilson’s disease, it binds to excess copper in the body, facilitating its elimination through urine. In cystinuria, penicillamine binds to the substance responsible for kidney stones, preventing its buildup and the formation of stones. In rheumatoid arthritis, it works by reducing certain actions of the immune system.
Uses and Dosage
Penicillamine is available in capsule and tablet forms for oral consumption. Typically, it is taken on an empty stomach, either at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, and also at least 1 hour before or after any food or milk. The frequency of administration varies depending on the condition being treated. For Wilson’s disease and cystinuria, it is usually taken four times a day, while for rheumatoid arthritis, it is generally taken once a day, although increased dosages may necessitate up to four times a day. The duration of treatment is determined by your doctor based on your response to the medication, your condition, and any experienced side effects.
Follow the prescribed schedule and directions on your prescription label meticulously. Take penicillamine at consistent times daily. Do not alter the dosage or frequency unless directed by your doctor. Initially, your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it.
It may take one to three months or longer before feeling the full benefits of penicillamine for Wilson’s disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Regardless of your well-being, continue taking penicillamine and avoid discontinuing it without consulting your doctor, even if symptoms seem to worsen. Stopping penicillamine abruptly increases the risk of an allergic reaction when restarting the medication.
Keep your doctor informed about your well-being during treatment with penicillamine. Depending on the experienced side effects, your doctor may adjust your treatment plan, prescribe additional medications, or modify your dosage.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- loss of appetite
- change in the way things taste
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- abdominal pain
- wrinkling of skin
- nail changes
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- rash, itching, hives, shedding skin, fever, joint pain, or swollen lymph nodes
- painful or itchy blisters and sores on the skin, mouth, and genitals
- fever, sore throat, chills, unusual bleeding or bruising
- shortness of breath, unexplained cough or wheezing
- foamy or pink, red, brown, or bloody urine
- muscle weakness, drooping eyelids, or double vision
Caution
- Before taking penicillamine, communicate with your doctor or pharmacist about any known allergies, especially if you are allergic to penicillamine, penicillins, or have other allergies.
- Discuss your medical history, especially if you’ve had a severe reaction to penicillamine before (such as aplastic anemia or agranulocytosis), or if you have conditions like kidney disease or blood/bone marrow disorders.
- If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor. Pregnancy is generally discouraged while using penicillamine due to potential harm to the unborn baby. However, in specific situations, such as treating Wilson’s disease, your doctor may decide on its use during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while using penicillamine, consult your doctor promptly to discuss the risks and benefits of the medication in your specific case.
- It is unclear whether penicillamine passes into breast milk. Due to the potential risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication. If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, consult your doctor for guidance.
Form and Strength
Cuprimine is available in the following forms and strengths:
- penicillamine capsule:
- 125 mg
- 250 mg
FAQ
How long does it take for Cuprimine to improve symptoms of Wilson’s disease?
It can take about 2 to 6 months of treatment with Cuprimine for you to see improvement if you have symptomatic Wilson’s disease.
How long does it take for Cuprimine to relieve my arthritis symptoms?
Cuprimine works slowly compared to other medications. It might take 2 or 3 months before you notice the full effects of the medication.
