PenicillamineWhy are you taking it?
Penicillamine acts by damping down inflammation in joints. It has no direct pain relieving effect, so you need to continue your other arthritis tablets at least for some time. The tablets can take three months or longer to have their full effect. If the treatment is suitable, you can stay on it for several years if necessary.
How and when is it to be taken?
The dose of Penicillamine varies from person to person, because of this it is available in three strengths : 50mg, 125mg and 250mg. The doses are usually between 125mg and 500mg daily. Penicillamine is best taken before breakfast with water. Do not take milk, iron preparations or indigestion remedies for at least two hours after taking Penicillamine as this reduces the effect. Missing one tablet will do no harm. You can continue to drink alcohol in moderation if you wish.
Are there any side effects, and what are they?
All medication can cause side-effects in some patients, the important question is the balance between the risk of side-effects and the potential benefits of treatment. The side-effects can be:
- Nausea, indigestion and an odd metallic taste in the mouth. These normally settle as you get used to the tablets.
- Mouth ulcers and skin rashes, which you should tell the nurses or doctors about.
- Blood and kidneys can be affected. This is why you have regular blood and urine tests to detect this.
- As with all drugs it is important to avoid becoming pregnant while taking this treatment.
If you are concerned that any symptoms you develop may be a side-effect please contact the surgery.
Why is careful monitoring so important?
Monitoring of the effects of your new treatment is important, particularly during the first three months of treatment. We need to check your blood and urine regularly - this is usually monthly but may vary according to your treatment. The monitoring is for your safety.
If unable to attend, please telephone for another appointment.
Remember to bring a specimen of urine to each monitoring clinic.
If you have any questions, queries or worries about your treatment, please contact your local rheumatology nurse.