Penicillamine

Dosage Forms Available

• Penicillamine is available in capsule and tablet form for oral administration.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for adults and children.

Contraindications

• Penicillamine should not be used by patients who have had severe allergic reactions to it in the past.

• Patients with Lupus erythematosus should avoid taking this medicine.

• It is contraindicated in patients with Rheumatoid arthritis who have significant kidney dysfunction.

• Those diagnosed with Bone marrow suppression or Aplastic anaemia should also refrain from taking Penicillamine.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medicine may interact with Gold-Therapy Products (e.g., aurothioglucose, auranofin, gold sodium thiomalate), anticancer medicines (e.g., methotrexate, doxorubicin), medicines used to manage anaemia (e.g., iron supplements), medicines used to manage malaria (e.g., mefloquine, quinine, chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, primaquine, pyrimethamine), medicine used to manage irregular heartbeat (eg., digoxin), Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) (e.g., naproxen, phenylbutazone, ibuprofen).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Penicillamine might cause symptoms such as severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle weakness, fatigue, or neurological symptoms like confusion or seizures. If you suspect an overdose, immediately contact medical services.

• If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double dose.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For mild nausea or loss of appetite, try taking Penicillamine after a light meal.

• For diarrhoea or stomach pain, try to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

• If you experience an altered sense of taste, try using plastic cutlery.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This medicine can affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machines. Avoid these activities if you experience dizziness or blurred vision after taking this medicine.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Penicillamine should only be taken in pregnancy and breastfeeding only if clearly necessary. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine during pregnancy and lactation.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with kidney disease should exercise caution when taking Penicillamine as it may further impair their kidney function.

• Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor for side effects while on this medication.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintain a regular exercise routine to help manage symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

• Limit intake of foods high in copper if you are managing Wilson's disease.

• Stay hydrated and follow a diet low in sodium to help prevent the formation of cystine kidney stones.

• Adequate rest and stress management can also help manage the symptoms associated with these conditions.