Penicillamine
(Depen)
Get free couponsTrientine
(Syprine)
Get free couponsSummary for Penicillamine
Penicillamine (Depen) is used to treat Wilson's disease, cystinuria, and severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It has many side effects, such as upset stomach and changes in taste, and requires careful monitoring by your provider. The dose is taken on an empty stomach, but you'll have to follow specific instructions on how to time penicillamine (Depen) with your meals and other medications. This medication comes as tablets (under the brand name Depen) and capsules (under the brand name Cuprimine). Penicillamine (Depen) is also available as a lower-cost generic.
Indications for Penicillamine
- Wilson's disease
- Cystinuria
- Severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA) when other medications haven’t worked well
Pros and Cons for Penicillamine
Pros
- Can take long term for maintenance therapy
- One of the few recommended treatments for Wilson's disease
- Can help control symptoms of Wilson’s disease
- Can use in children with cystinuria
Cons
- Need to take on an empty stomach
- Might need to take multiple times a day
- Can take 2 or 3 months before seeing the full effects of the medication for RA
- Not safe for use during pregnancy and in people with kidney problems
Common Side Effects for Penicillamine
- Stomach problems, such as loss of appetite, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (17%)
- Total or partial loss of taste (12%)
- Protein in urine (6%)
- Rash (5%)
Warnings for Penicillamine
- Requires close monitoring by your provider
- Serious blood problems
- Serious kidney problems
- Fever
- Allergic reactions
- Vitamin and mineral deficiency
- Nerve problems
- Skin problems
Summary for Trientine
Trientine (Syprine) is a medication used in people with Wilson's disease to prevent blood copper levels from getting too high. It's only for people who can't take penicillamine (Depen). It's not commonly used, so there's little information about this medication.
Indications for Trientine
- Wilson's disease in people who can't take penicillamine (Depen)
Pros and Cons for Trientine
Pros
- Can be used for short-term and long-term treatment of Wilson's disease
- Few reported side effects
- Available as a lower-cost generic medication
Cons
- Little known about this medication, since it hasn't been used or studied a lot
- Need to take 2 to 4 times per day and on an empty stomach
- Need to store in the refrigerator
Common Side Effects for Trientine
- Low iron levels (iron deficiency)
Warnings for Trientine
- Little known about the effects of the medication
Prices with our coupons for Penicillamine vs. Trientine
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