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Active pharmaceutical ingredient

Penicillamine

Penicillamine is a chelating agent primarily used in the treatment of conditions such as Wilson's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and cystinuria.

Compounded to order
Prescription required
Warwick, Rhode Island

About this ingredient

Penicillamine is a chelating agent primarily used in the treatment of Wilson's disease, a genetic disorder that leads to excessive copper accumulation in the body. It works by binding to excess copper, facilitating its excretion through the urine, thereby reducing copper levels and preventing organ damage. This mechanism of action makes penicillamine an essential component in managing conditions associated with metal toxicity.

In addition to its role in treating Wilson's disease, penicillamine is also utilized in the management of rheumatoid arthritis. It helps reduce inflammation and slow disease progression by modulating the immune response. This dual functionality underscores its versatility in addressing both metabolic and autoimmune disorders.

Penicillamine is typically administered orally, and its dosage must be carefully adjusted based on the patient's specific condition and response to therapy. Regular monitoring of blood counts and liver function tests is crucial during treatment to ensure safety and efficacy. Prescribers should be aware of potential side effects, including gastrointestinal disturbances, skin rashes, and hematological changes, which necessitate close patient supervision.

Given its potent chelating properties, penicillamine is contraindicated in patients with a history of penicillin allergy, as it may trigger hypersensitivity reactions. It is also important to consider potential drug interactions, particularly with other chelating agents and medications that affect renal function. By understanding these considerations, healthcare providers can optimize treatment outcomes for patients requiring penicillamine therapy.

Available formulations

Compounded formulations containing this ingredient

Each of these is compounded to order at our Warwick, Rhode Island pharmacy and requires a prescription.

We do not have a patient page for this ingredient yet. That does not mean we cannot make it. Bayview compounds this ingredient to a prescriber's order, and our full compounding formulary lists every preparation we make. Viewing the formulary requires a prescriber account.

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Compounding formulary

Formulas we compound with this ingredient

A sample of preparations from our formulary. Strengths and dose forms are customised to the prescription.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

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Related

Related active ingredients

Other salt forms of this molecule, and ingredients commonly compounded alongside it.

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Important information

This page describes an active pharmaceutical ingredient, not a finished drug product. Bayview Pharmacy compounds preparations containing it only on a prescriber's order for an individual patient.

Compounded preparations are not FDA-approved, and the FDA has not evaluated them for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing quality. Nothing on this page is a claim that any preparation is effective for any condition.

A valid prescription is required. Availability depends on Bayview's licensure in your state. This page is general information, not medical advice — discuss your situation with a licensed healthcare provider.

Talk to a compounding pharmacist

Our pharmacists work with prescribers to build preparations around a patient's dose, form and tolerances. Ask us what is possible with this ingredient.