penicillamine

You should be under close supervision of your provider while you're taking penicillamine (Depen). This medication can cause many side effects, like blood problems, kidney problems, skin problems, and fever. You'll need regular lab work done and follow ups with your provider to make sure penicillamine (Depen) is safe for you. Tell your provider if you have any side effects while taking this medication.

Penicillamine (Depen) can cause potential blood problems. These problems include low white blood cells, low red blood cells, and low platelets (blood cells that help clot blood when you get a cut). Taking certain medications like gold therapy (e.g., Ridaura (auranofin)), antimalarial medications, cytotoxic medications (e.g., methotrexate), oxyphenbutazone, or phenylbutazone can raise your risk of developing blood problems. Let your provider know if you have a history of blood problems or are taking any medications that might cause them before starting penicillamine (Depen). While you're taking this medication, you'll need to get blood tests done so your provider can check your blood cell counts. If you notice a fever, sore throat, chills, bruising, or bleeding, contact your provider right away.

Penicillamine (Depen) might cause you to have protein or blood in your urine, which can be a sign of kidney damage. This is more likely to happen if you have a history of kidney problems or take certain medications. Don’t take penicillamine (Depen) if you currently have kidney problems, and talk to your provider about alternative medications. You'll have to get regular urine tests done while you're taking penicillamine (Depen) so your provider can check your kidney health. If you notice any blood in your urine, tell your provider right away.

Some people might experience a fever in response to taking penicillamine (Depen), usually in the second or third week of therapy. If you experience a fever, stop taking the medication and let your provider know right away. If you're taking penicillamine (Depen) to treat Wilson's disease or cystinuria, your provider might start it again at a low dose once your fever goes away and then raise your dose slowly. For RA, your provider will probably change your medication because there are other options available.

Penicillamine (Depen) can sometimes cause rash. Rashes can occur as early as during the first few months of treatment or as late as 6 months or more after starting penicillamine (Depen). Let your provider know if you get a rash. If you get a very itchy rash on your stomach or back after 6 months or longer of penicillamine (Depen) treatment, your provider might stop the medication. And if you experience a rash with fever, swollen lymph nodes, or joint pain, tell your provider right away.

Penicillamine (Depen) can cause lower vitamin B6 levels in your body. Vitamin B6 is an important nutrient that helps keep you healthy. Penicillamine (Depen) attaches to vitamin B6 and prevents the vitamin from working in your body. In addition, if you need to be on a special diet for your condition, you might not be getting enough protein from your diet. This can cause low iron levels in your body. Ask your provider if you or your child should take supplements while taking penicillamine (Depen) to make sure your body gets the nutrients it needs.

Some people using penicillamine (Depen) have experienced nerve problems affecting different parts of the body. Sometimes, these nerve problems are worse when you first start the medication. But, they should get better as you continue treatment. Symptoms of nerve problems can include drooping eyelids, double vision, and muscle weakness. Tell your provider right away if you notice any of these side effects.