Cat & Dog - Penicillamine

Why has my veterinary surgeon prescribed this medicine?

Penicillamine is used in the treatment of cystine stones (calculi, uroliths) affecting the urinary system. Your veterinary surgeon may also prescribe a special diet and medication to change the pH of the urine. Penicillamine is also used for treatment of copper hepatotoxosis and poisoning.

Penicillamine is not available as a veterinary preparation. Your veterinary surgeon may ask you to sign a consent form so a preparation licensed for humans can be used to treat your pet.

How does this medicine work?

For the treatment of cystinuria, penicillamine reacts with cystine to form a more soluble sulfide compound that is more readily excreted. For copper and lead poisoning, penicillamine is a chelating agent such that it combines with a metallic ion to produce an inert chelate (binds to the toxin and prevents it having a toxic effect).

How do I give this medication?

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinary surgeon.
• READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• Penicillamine is best given on an empty stomach because food interferes with absorption of the drug.
• Try to give this medication at about the same time(s) each day.
• DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and DO NOT give the medicine more often than directed.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.
• Wash your hands after handling the medication.
• In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical advice immediately and show the package leaflet or label to the physician.
• DO NOT discontinue the medication without first checking with your veterinary surgeon. Contact your veterinary surgeon in advance if your pet needs a repeat prescription.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give your pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

• Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
• Store this medicine in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.

Potential side effects

• Side effects have been reported including loss of appetite, vomiting, fever, diarrhoea, and kidney problems.
• Your veterinary surgeon may advise you to divide the daily dose or give the medicine with food to reduce the occurrence of side effects.
• If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinary surgeon.

Possible drug interactions

• Make sure to tell your veterinary surgeon what other medication you are giving to your pet.
• Contact your veterinary surgeon if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.