Where is Penicillamine used?
Penicillamine is used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, Wilson’s disease, and cystinuria. This is an anti-rheumatoid drug available as an oral capsule. This is known as a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD). This is also in the class of medication called heavy metal antagonists.
This drug helps to decrease tenderness, pain, or swelling in the joints. In Wilson’s disease, this drug binds to copper and helps it to be removed from the body. Lessening copper levels helps improve liver function and the mood or nerve problems caused by the disease. In the treatment of cystinuria, Penicillamine also lessens the amount of cystine in the urine which can cause kidney stones. This is a prescription approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
How does Penicillamine work?
In rheumatoid arthritis, Penicillamine works by suppressing the excessive activity of the immune system that causes the inflammation of the joints. This slows the progression of the underlying disease. It lessens the blood levels of certain inflammatory chemicals that the body’s immune system produces in rheumatoid arthritis. When these have dropped, the inflammation of the joints reduces which helps ease the pain.
In Wilson’s disease, this drug binds to several heavy metals including copper, lead, and mercury forming complexes. These complexes are readily removed from the body by the kidneys and are excreted in the urine.
In cystinuria, Penicillamine decreases the amount of cystine that the kidneys filter into the urine. This helps prevent stones from forming and allows existing stones to gradually dissolve.
How is Penicillamine taken?
This prescription is to be taken by mouth. Each dose is to be taken on an empty stomach or as directed by your doctor. Take each dose at least an hour apart from other medications, food, or milk. Swallow the tablet as a whole with a full glass of water. Do not break, chew, or crush it. Doing so can release the entire drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
The recommended dosage will depend on your medical condition, age, and response to the treatment. You must take this drug exactly as it is prescribed. You should not take this more or less than it is given by your doctor.
What are the possible side effects of Penicillamine?
Common side effects:
- Nausea
- Stomach or abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Decreased sense of taste
- Ringing in the ears
- Itching or rash
- Sores in the mouth
- Poor wound healing
- Increased wrinkling of the skin
Call your doctor if these serious side effects occur:
- New or worsening joint pain
- Muscle weakness in your arms and legs
- New or worsening cough or fever
- Trouble breathing
- Skin rash or peeling
- Blisters in your mouth
- Swelling in your hands, feet, or legs
- Lower back pain, foamy or bloody urine
- Pain or burning when you urinate
What are the precautions in taking Penicillamine?
- Before taking Penicillamine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to it. This may not be recommended for use if you have a history of an allergic reaction.
- Consult your doctor first if you are breastfeeding women.
- Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications such as vitamins or herbal supplements.
