💊 D-Penicillamine Capsule 250 mg
🔹 Generic Name:
D-Penicillamine
🔹 Dosage Form & Strength:
- Capsule, 250 mg
- Prescription-only medication (Rx)
📌 Uses / Indications:
| Medical Condition | Purpose / Action |
|---|---|
| Wilson’s Disease | Chelates excess copper and facilitates excretion |
| Rheumatoid Arthritis | Second-line DMARD when standard therapies fail |
| Cystinuria | Binds cystine to prevent kidney stone formation |
| Heavy Metal Poisoning | Off-label use for lead or mercury chelation |
💡 Mechanism of Action:
D-Penicillamine is a chelating agent that binds with metals like copper, lead, and mercury, forming stable complexes that are excreted in urine. It also modulates the immune system, which is helpful in autoimmune diseases like RA.
✅ Advantages:
- Very effective for Wilson’s disease
- Reduces urinary cystine concentrations
- May slow RA progression if used long-term
- Can treat some rare metabolic and toxic conditions
⚠️ Precautions & Monitoring:
| Risk/Precaution | Monitoring/Advice |
|---|---|
| Bone marrow suppression | Regular CBC (blood counts) |
| Proteinuria/nephritis | Monitor urine protein & renal function |
| Allergic reactions | Discontinue if rash, fever, or swollen lymph nodes |
| Autoimmune signs | Watch for lupus-like symptoms |
| Pregnancy (Category D) | Avoid unless absolutely necessary |
🧴 Storage Instructions:
- Store at 20–25°C (68–77°F)
- Protect from moisture, heat, and light
- Keep tightly closed in original container