Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names: Cuprimine, Depen

Generic Name: penicillamine (Pronunciation: pen ih SILL ah meen)

• What is penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)?
• What are the possible side effects of penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)?
• What is the most important information I should know about penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)?
• How should I take penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Cuprimine, Depen)?
• What happens if I overdose (Cuprimine, Depen)?
• What should I avoid while taking penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)?
• What other drugs will affect penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)?

Penicillamine is a chelating agent. It attaches to other chemicals in the body, which aids in their removal.

Penicillamine is used to remove excess copper associated with Wilson's disease. It is also used to reduce cystine in the urine and to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis.

Penicillamine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Depen 250 mg

oval, white, imprinted with 37 4401, WALLACE

What are the possible side effects of penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

• an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of your throat; difficulty breathing; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives);
• fever or chills;
• a sore throat;
• unusual bleeding or bruising;
• blood in the urine;
• unexplained shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing;
• abdominal pain;
• yellow skin or eyes;
• muscle weakness; or
• double vision.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take penicillamine and notify your doctor if you experience

• itching or a rash;
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite;
• ringing in the ears;
• decreased taste;
• sores in the mouth;
• poor wound healing; or
• increased wrinkling of the skin.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)?

Notify your doctor immediately if you develop fever; chills; a sore throat; unusual bruising or bleeding; blood in your urine, unexplained shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing; muscle weakness; or double vision. These symptoms could be early signs of dangerous side effects.

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