Trientine
Heavy Metal Poisoning, Nervous System , Hepatolenticular Degeneration
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Copper Chelator
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Trientine is used to treat Wilson's disease, which is a genetic disorder causing copper buildup in the body. This buildup can damage organs like the liver and brain. Trientine helps remove excess copper, preventing such damage. It's often used when other treatments, like penicillamine, are not suitable.
Trientine works by binding to copper in the body, which helps remove it through urine. This process is similar to using a magnet to pick up metal. By reducing copper levels, trientine helps prevent damage to organs like the liver and brain.
The usual starting dose of trientine for adults is 750 mg to 1,250 mg per day, divided into two to four doses. It's taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meals. Swallow the capsules whole; do not crush or chew them.
Common side effects of trientine include nausea, stomach upset, and changes in taste. These effects vary from person to person. Serious side effects can include anemia, which is a low red blood cell count, and liver problems.
Trientine can cause anemia, which is a condition where you have fewer red blood cells than normal. Regular blood tests are needed to monitor your blood cell levels. Avoid if allergic to trientine or its ingredients. Consult your doctor if you have a history of anemia.
Indications and Purpose
How does trientine work?
Trientine works by binding to copper in your body, which helps remove it through urine. This process is similar to using a magnet to pick up metal. By reducing copper levels, trientine helps prevent damage to organs like the liver and brain. This medication is effective for people with Wilson's disease, which is a genetic disorder that causes copper buildup in the body.
Is trientine effective?
Trientine is effective for treating Wilson's disease, which is a genetic disorder that causes copper buildup in the body. It works by binding to copper and helping your body remove it. Clinical studies show trientine effectively reduces copper levels and improves symptoms in people with Wilson's disease. Regular monitoring by your doctor is important to ensure the medication is working properly for your condition.
What is trientine?
Trientine is a medication used to treat Wilson's disease, which is a genetic disorder that causes copper buildup in the body. It belongs to a class of drugs called chelating agents, which work by binding to copper and helping your body remove it. This helps prevent damage to organs like the liver and brain. Trientine is usually used when other treatments, like penicillamine, are not suitable.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take trientine?
Trientine is usually a long-term medication for managing Wilson's disease, which is a genetic disorder that causes copper buildup in the body. You'll typically take trientine every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your condition to worsen. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your trientine treatment.
How do I dispose of trientine?
If you can, bring unused trientine to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take trientine?
Take trientine on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meals. It's usually taken two to four times a day. Swallow the capsules whole; do not crush or chew them. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Avoid taking two doses at once.
How long does it take for trientine to start working?
Trientine begins working in your body shortly after you take it, but you may not notice all the benefits right away. It can take several weeks to months to see significant improvements in symptoms and copper levels. How quickly the medication works can depend on your overall health and the severity of your condition. Regular monitoring by your doctor is important to ensure the medication is working properly.
How should I store trientine?
Store trientine at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container. Don't store it in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture in the air could affect how well the medication works. Always store trientine out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of trientine?
The usual starting dose of trientine for adults is 750 mg to 1,250 mg per day, divided into two to four doses. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response and needs. The maximum recommended dose is 2,000 mg per day. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take trientine with other prescription drugs?
Trientine can interact with iron supplements, reducing its effectiveness. To prevent this, take trientine and iron supplements at least two hours apart. Always inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions. Your doctor can help manage any interactions and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Can trientine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
The safety of trientine while breastfeeding is not well-established. It's unclear if trientine passes into breast milk or affects the breastfed infant. If you're taking trientine and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely. Your doctor can help determine the best approach for your situation.
Can trientine be taken safely while pregnant?
The safety of trientine during pregnancy is not well-established. Limited evidence is available, and the effects on the unborn baby are not fully known. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your condition. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Does trientine have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of trientine include nausea and stomach upset. Serious side effects can include anemia, which is a low red blood cell count, and liver problems. If you notice symptoms like unusual tiredness, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or dark urine, contact your doctor immediately. Always report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Does trientine have any safety warnings?
Yes, trientine has important safety warnings. It can cause anemia, which is a condition where you have fewer red blood cells than normal. This can lead to fatigue and weakness. Regular blood tests are needed to monitor your blood cell levels. If you experience unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, or pale skin, contact your doctor immediately. Always follow your doctor's instructions and attend all scheduled appointments.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking trientine?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking trientine. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage, which is a concern for people with Wilson's disease. Drinking alcohol may also worsen side effects like stomach upset. If you do choose to drink occasionally, limit how much alcohol you consume and talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking trientine to get personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking trientine?
You can exercise while taking trientine, but keep a few things in mind. Trientine can cause anemia, which is a low red blood cell count, leading to fatigue and weakness. This might make you feel tired during exercise. To exercise safely, listen to your body and rest if you feel fatigued. Most people can maintain their regular exercise routine while taking trientine, but check with your doctor if you have concerns.
Is it safe to stop trientine?
Stopping trientine suddenly can cause serious problems for your health conditions. If you're taking it for Wilson's disease, which is a genetic disorder that causes copper buildup in the body, stopping could worsen your condition. Always talk with your doctor before stopping trientine. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control.
Is trientine addictive?
Trientine is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. It works by binding to copper in your body to help remove it, and this mechanism doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed.
Is trientine safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals may be more vulnerable to the side effects of trientine, such as anemia, which is a low red blood cell count, and liver problems. Regular monitoring by a doctor is important to ensure safe use. Specific risks or negative outcomes more frequently observed among elderly users include increased fatigue and weakness. Always consult your doctor about these concerns before starting trientine.
What are the most common side effects of trientine?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of trientine include nausea, stomach upset, and changes in taste. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting trientine, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking trientine?
Trientine should not be used if you are allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. Use caution if you have a history of anemia, which is a low red blood cell count, as trientine can worsen this condition. Always consult your doctor about these concerns before starting trientine.
