Penicillamine
Cuprimine (penicillamine) is a prescription chelating agent used primarily to treat Wilson's disease, a genetic disorder that causes copper to accumulate in vital organs, as well as cystinuria to prevent kidney stones. It works by binding to metals in the body so they can be excreted through urine. While it has also been used for rheumatoid arthritis, its use has declined significantly due to availability of safer alternatives.
Cuprimine is a chelating medication used mainly for Wilson's disease and cystinuria, helping remove excess copper and prevent kidney stones.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 202724
- Generic
- Cuprimine
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treats Wilson's disease by removing excess copper from the body, reduces kidney stone formation in cystinuria, and has been used for rheumatoid arthritis (though less frequently now).
As a chelating agent, it binds to copper, zinc, lead, and other metals in the bloodstream, forming compounds that are then eliminated through the kidneys in urine.
Must be taken on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals) for proper absorption. Requires regular blood and urine monitoring for bone marrow and kidney function. Common side effects include loss of taste, skin rash, and gastrointestinal upset. Should not be stopped abruptly without medical supervision.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy