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n.

A degradation product of penicillin, C₅H₁₁NO₂S, that is used as a chelating agent and in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, Wilson's disease, and lead poisoning.

[PENICILL(IN) + –AMINE.]

Brand names: Cuprimine®, Depen®

Español:
• Tabletas o cápsulas de penicilamina

Penicillamine tablets or capsules

What are penicillamine tablets or capsules?

PENICILLAMINE (Cuprimine®, Depen®) helps to treat Wilson's disease (too much copper in the body); rheumatoid arthritis; and iron, mercury, arsenic, or lead poisoning. It can also help to prevent kidney stones. Generic penicillamine tablets and capsules are not yet available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• anemia or other blood disorders
• fever
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• passing blood in urine
• skin or mouth problems
• an unusual or allergic reaction to penicillamine, penicillin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take penicillamine tablets or capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets or capsules with a drink of water. Take penicillamine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if the tablets make you feel unwell. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with penicillamine?

• aluminum salts, like aluminum hydroxide
• antacids
• gold compounds, often used for arthritis
• iron supplements
• magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia)
• magnesium supplements
• medicines for cancer chemotherapy
• medicines for prevention or treatment of malaria
• medicines that suppress your immune response
• pyridoxine (vitamin B₆)

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking penicillamine?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional at regular intervals to check on your progress. Penicillamine takes some time to work. If you are treating rheumatoid arthritis or Wilson's disease, you may not notice an improvement in your condition for 2 or 3 months. Take your doses regularly and do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.

If you are taking penicillamine for Wilson's disease or metal poisoning, you must follow any dietary restrictions given by your prescriber or health care professional. Foods you may need to avoid are those that contain copper (such as chocolate, nuts, liver, and broccoli).

If you are taking penicillamine to prevent kidney stones you need to drink plenty of water. Drink 2 full glasses of water at bedtime and a further 2 full glasses of water during the night.

Penicillamine makes your body need more pyridoxine (vitamin B₆). Check with your prescriber or health care professional to see if you need to take extra vitamin B₆.

Antacids and iron preparations can stop penicillamine working properly. Check before taking vitamin and mineral supplements; they often contain iron. Avoid taking antacids.

If you are going to have surgery, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking penicillamine.

What side effects may I notice from taking penicillamine?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• black, tarry stools
• blood in urine, or cloudy urine
• cough or hoarseness
• difficulty breathing, wheezing
• eye pain or vision problems, red or irritated eyes
• fever, chills, sore throat
• joint pain
• lower back or side pain
• mouth ulcers, sores, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth
• pain or difficulty passing urine
• ringing or buzzing in ears
• skin rash, hives or blisters, itching
• swelling of face, feet, or lower legs
• swollen or painful glands
• unusual bleeding or bruising, pinpoint red spots on skin
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• yellowing of your skin or eyes

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• anxiety or nervousness
• changes in taste
• diarrhea
• loss of appetite
• nausea, vomiting
• stomach pain

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Last updated: 7/1/2002

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

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