Trientine
About Trientine
Trientine is indicated for the treatment of Wilson’s disease in patients who cannot take penicillamine because of side effects. Wilson's disease is a genetic metabolic defect that causes excess copper to build up in the body.
Trientine contains Trientine, a copper-chelating agent, which works by attaching to the copper and removing excess copper from the body via urine.
In some cases, Trientine may cause nausea, abdominal pain, change of bowel habits, and skin rash. Most of the side effects may not require medical attention and resolve gradually over time. However, talk to the doctor if any of the side effects persist or worsen.
Let the doctor know if you are allergic to any of the components in Trientine. Consult the doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Keep the doctor informed about your health condition and medications to rule out any side effects/interactions.
Uses of Trientine
Medicinal Benefits
Trientine is indicated for treating Wilson’s disease in patients who cannot take penicillamine because of side effects. Trientine contains Trientine, a copper-chelating agent, which eliminates absorbed copper from the body by forming a stable complex that is then removed through urinary excretion. It also chelates copper in the intestinal tract, reducing copper absorption.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Trientine
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Change of bowel habits
- Skin rash
Drug Warnings
Do not take Trientine if you are allergic to any of its components. Consult the doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Inform the doctor if you have anaemia (low red blood cells), biliary cirrhosis (liver disease), or low iron levels. Seek medical attention if you notice symptoms of nervous system problems (shaking, lack of coordination, slurred speech, muscle stiffness and worsening of muscle spasms) or lupus-like reaction (persistent rash, fever, joint pain, and tiredness). Let the doctor know if you are taking any other medicines, including supplements and herbal products.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Disease Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
consult your doctorIt is not known if alcohol affects Trientine. Please consult your doctor.
Pregnancy
cautionConsult the doctor if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby. Your doctor will prescribe the medicine if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionConsult the doctor if you are breastfeeding. Your doctor will prescribe the medicine if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Driving
safeTrientine is unlikely to affect your ability to drive. However, drive or operate heavy machinery only if you are alert.
Liver
consult your doctorIf you have a pre-existing or a history of liver disease, inform your doctor before taking Trientine.
Kidney
consult your doctorIf you have a pre-existing or a history of kidney disease, inform your doctor before taking Trientine.
Children
safe if prescribedTrientine is safe for use in children above five years if prescribed by the doctor. The doctor may adjust the dose based on the body weight and age of the child.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat healthy, nutrient-dense foods.
- Follow a diet low in copper.
- Do not consume beef liver, cashews, black-eyed peas, shellfish, mushrooms, and cocoa.
- Avoid or limit the consumption of supplements containing copper.
- Get optimal sleep; rest well.
Special Advise
- Your doctor may regularly monitor for disease symptoms and copper levels in your blood and urine.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Wilson’s disease: Wilson's disease is an inherited disorder that causes excess copper to build up in the body, particularly in the brain, liver, and eyes. Excess copper damages the tissues and may lead to tissue death and scarring. Symptoms of Wilson's disease may include fatigue, abdominal pain, swelling, and uncontrolled/poorly coordinated movements.
FAQs
Trientine is used to treat Wilson’s disease.
Trientine works by attaching to the copper and removing excess copper from the body via urine.
It is recommended to take Trientine at least 1 hour apart from other medicinal products. If you take iron preparations or antacids, maintain a gap of at least 2 hours before and after taking Trientine. If you are taking mineral supplements, take Trientine at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after taking mineral supplements.
If you forget a dose, take the next dose at the scheduled time. Avoid taking a double dose to make up for the missed dose.
Even if you feel well, do not stop or change your treatment without talking to the doctor. Consult the doctor if you experience any difficulty while taking Trientine.
