Betaine
Cystadane is a prescription medication containing betaine anhydrous used to treat homocystinuria, a rare genetic disorder characterized by elevated homocysteine levels in the blood. It works by providing a methyl group that helps convert homocysteine to methionine, reducing toxic accumulation. This medication is typically used as adjunctive therapy alongside dietary methionine restriction and vitamin supplementation.
Cystadane is used to lower dangerously high homocysteine levels in patients with homocystinuria by helping convert homocysteine to methionine.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 404967
- Generic
- Cystadane
- 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.
Cystadane is indicated for the treatment of homocystinuria, a rare inherited metabolic disorder. This includes homocystinuria caused by cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) deficiency, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) deficiency, and cobalamin metabolism defects. It is used in patients of all ages.
Cystadane contains betaine anhydrous, which acts as a methyl donor. It serves as a substrate for the enzyme betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase (BHMT) in the liver and kidneys, where it facilitates the remethylation of homocysteine to methionine. This helps reduce the toxic accumulation of homocysteine in the body.
Cystadane should be used alongside dietary methionine restriction and vitamin supplementation (including vitamin B6, B12, and folate when appropriate). The medication is generally well-tolerated, though gastrointestinal symptoms may occur. Regular monitoring of plasma and urine homocysteine levels is recommended to assess treatment efficacy. Patients should not discontinue therapy without consulting their physician.
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