Cysteamine Hydrochloride
Cysteamine Hydrochloride is a cystine-depleting agent primarily used to treat nephropathic cystinosis, a rare genetic disorder that causes accumulation of cystine crystals in various organs including kidneys, eyes, and muscles. It works by reacting with cystine to form a compound that can be transported out of lysosomes, reducing cellular cystine levels and preventing organ damage over time.
Cysteamine Hydrochloride is a specialized medication for nephropathic cystinosis that reduces harmful cystine buildup in cells.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1426886
- Generic
- Cysteamine Hydrochloride
- Class
- pin-variant
- 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.
Nephropathic cystinosis (pediatric and adult forms), corneal cystine crystal deposits in cystinosis, and off-label investigation in neurodegenerative disorders
Enters lysosomes and reacts with cystine to form cysteine and cysteine-cysteamine mixed disulfide, which exits via the lysine transporter system, effectively lowering intracellular cystine accumulation
Must be initiated early in life for maximum benefit; requires lifelong adherence to slow disease progression. Common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms, breath/body odor, and skin rash. Requires careful dosing and monitoring by specialists familiar with cystinosis management.
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 August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy