Drugs Used for Wilson’s Disease

Wilson’s disease is an inherited condition. Excessive amounts of copper accumulate in various organs such as the liver and brain. Copper is an essential mineral needed for the development of bones, nerves, and collagen. In an otherwise healthy person, copper is absorbed from food and excess copper is excreted through bile produced by the liver. In persons with Wilson’s disease, copper is not adequately eliminated but instead accumulates. The condition is fatal if not properly treated. Symptoms may begin as early as age 5 or 6, however may not appear until later in life. Abdominal pain and yellowing of the skin are signs of liver damage that may be experienced as copper accumulates in the liver. Muscle spasms, tremors, and difficulty speaking are other signs of this condition.

The treatment for Wilson’s disease is aimed at removing excess copper from the body and the preventing copper build up. Penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen) is a medication that chelates copper, thereby creating a form that is excreted in the urine. However, this medication may cause serious side effects. Trientine (Syprine) is also a chelating agent but causes less toxicity than penicillamine. Zinc acetate prevents the absorption of copper. Liver transplantation may be the only option for persons with serious liver problems.