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Trientine Oral Capsule

What is this medication?

TRIENTINE (TRY en teen) treats Wilson's disease. It works by binding to copper and other metals in the body. This medication will lower the amount of copper in the body but does not cure the disease.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): CLOVIQUE, Syprine

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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Anemia
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to trientine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth with water. Take it as directed on the prescription label. Take it on an empty stomach, at least 1 before and 2 hours after food. Do not cut, crush or chew this medication. Swallow the capsules whole. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.

Take other medications and supplements at a different time of day than this medication. Take this medication 2 hours BEFORE or 2 hours AFTER iron products. Take this medication 1 hour BEFORE or 2 hours AFTER products that contain calcium, magnesium, or zinc. Take this medication 1 hour BEFORE or 1 hour AFTER other oral medications.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

  • Vitamins or other products that contain calcium, iron, magnesium, or zinc

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. You may need blood work while you are taking this medication. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

You may need to be on a special diet while you are taking this medication. Ask your care team.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Iron deficiency—unusual weakness or fatigue, dizziness, headache, trouble breathing
  • Lupus-like syndrome—joint pain, swelling, or stiffness, butterfly-shaped rash on the face, rashes that get worse in the sun, fever, unusual weakness or fatigue
  • New or worsening neurologic symptoms—pain or trouble swallowing, trouble speaking, tremors or shaking, trouble walking, uncontrolled and repetitive movements of the face, mouth, or upper body

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Change in bowel habits
  • Constipation
  • Hair loss
  • Heartburn
  • Stomach pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store in a refrigerator. Protect from moisture. Keep the container tightly closed. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

  • Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, take the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Copyright ©2024 Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Terms of use.

Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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