Drug Interactions:
Penicillamine
Trade Names
•
Cuprimine, Depen
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Copper - Avoid in Cases of Wilson's Disease
Vitamin B6 - Possible Need for Supplementation
Zinc - Supplementation Possibly Helpful, but Take at a Different Time of Day
Iron - Take at a Different Time of Day
The drug penicillamine is primarily used to treat Wilson's disease (an inherited disorder affecting copper metabolism, causing cirrhosis and brain and eye problems) and rheumatoid arthritis.
Copper
Avoid in Cases of Wilson's Disease
When used to treat Wilson's disease, penicillamine works by removing copper from the body. Taking copper supplements while you are using penicillamine for this condition is not a good idea.
Vitamin B6
Possible Need for Supplementation
Penicillamine might increase the need for vitamin B6.1 Taking 25 to 50 mg of supplemental B6 daily is often recommended.2
Zinc
Supplementation Possibly Helpful, but Take at a Different Time of Day
Long-term use of penicillamine can cause zinc deficiency.3 However, zinc can impair penicillamine absorption, so do not take zinc supplements during the 2 hours before or after your penicillamine dose.4
Iron
Take at a Different Time of Day
Penicillamine attaches to the mineral iron, which impairs the absorption of both substances.5,6 The solution: If you need iron supplements, do not take them during the 2 hours before or after your penicillamine dose.
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Last reviewed March 2002 by Medical Review Board
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