Zinc Acetate
Wilzin is a brand-name medication containing trientine dihydrochloride, a copper-chelating agent used primarily to treat Wilson's disease. It works by binding to excess copper in the body and facilitating its removal through urine, helping to prevent copper accumulation in vital organs such as the liver and brain. This medication is typically prescribed when patients cannot tolerate penicillamine, another copper chelator.
Wilzin (trientine) is a copper-chelating agent used to treat Wilson's disease by removing excess copper from the body.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 2469933
- Generic
- Wilzin
- 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.
Wilzin is indicated for the treatment of Wilson's disease (hepatolenticular degeneration), a genetic disorder characterized by excessive copper accumulation in the body. It helps manage copper overload in patients who cannot tolerate or have contraindications to penicillamine therapy.
Trientine, the active ingredient in Wilzin, is a chelating agent that binds to copper ions in the bloodstream, forming a water-soluble complex that can be excreted by the kidneys through urine. This process reduces copper levels in tissues and prevents further accumulation in the liver, brain, and other organs.
Wilzin should be taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meals. Iron supplements should be avoided as they may reduce trientine absorption. Regular monitoring of copper levels, liver function, and blood counts is required during treatment. Pregnant patients should use this medication only if clearly needed, as it may cause harm to the fetus. Common side effects include nausea, skin reactions, and rare cases of lupus-like syndrome.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
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 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy