Penicillamine Capsules Compounded

Penicillamine (D-) is a chelating agent used by some veterinarians to treat pets suffering from heavy metal poisonings like lead, copper or mercury toxicity. If strength is not listed, please contact a CareFirst Customer Representative for more information.

Pronunciation:

(Pen-i-sill-a-meen)

Other Names:

Brand Names (U.S.): Depen, Cuprimine

Drug Class:

Antidote; Chelating Agent

Mechanism of Action:

Chelates with lead, copper, mercury and other heavy metals to form stable, soluble complexes that are excreted in urine; depresses circulating IgM rheumatoid factor, depresses T-cell but not B-cell activity; combines with cystine to form a compound which is more soluble, thus cystine calculi are prevented

Drug Interactions:

Do not take with the following medications: chloroquine, quinacrine, Zinc, iron, calcium, magnesium, antacids, gold compounds, cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, phenylbutazone, pyridoxine

Adverse Effects:

Common side effects you might experience: Nausea, vomiting and depression, fever, skin friability and impaired healing

Tell your doctor if you begin to have any of these symptoms following penicillamine administration:

• Signs of an allergic reaction like a rash, hives, itching, trouble breathing, wheezing, tightness in the chest and/or throat.

Administration:

Use this drug as ordered by your prescriber. Generally, penicillamine should be given on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before feeding

Dosing:

Contact your healthcare provider for specific dosing instructions.

Pregnancy:

Pregnancy Category D

Breastfeeding:

Should not nurse while taking penicillamine

References:

• https://fco.factsandcomparisons.com/lco/action/doc/retrieve/docid/fc_dfc/5548936?cesid=5PluvyV3EGF&searchUrl=%2Flco%2Faction%2Fsearch%3Fq%3Dpenicillamine%26t%3Dname%26va%3Dpenicillamine%26nq%3Dtrue#pri
• Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook 9th edition