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Home > Medicines & Drugs > Mercaptamine

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Mercaptamine

  • Mercaptamine will be started by a specialist.
  • You should not take mercaptamine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Mercaptamine should not be taken if you have ever had an allergy to penicillamine.
  • You will have regular blood tests while on this medicine.

About mercaptamine

Type of medicineDrug used in metabolic disorders
Used forNephropathic cystinosis (an inherited condition causing tissue and organ damage)
Also calledCystagon®
Available asCapsules

In nephropathic cystinosis, an amino acid called cystine builds up in organs in the body causing damage to these organs. Mercaptamine works by reducing the build-up of cystine in the body.

Before taking mercaptamine

Before taking mercaptamine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have had an allergic reaction to this medicine or the drug penicillamine.
  • If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take mercaptamine

  • Generally, you will start on a low dose which will be increased over 4 to 6 weeks.
  • It is usual for four doses to be taken daily. Take your doses with or after meals.
  • For children under 6 years old the capsules should be opened and the contents sprinkled on food. Avoid adding to acidic drinks such as orange juice.
  • Treatment will normally be started by a hospital consultant.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Keep your regular appointments with your doctor.
  • You will have regular blood tests to make sure the dose you are taking is correct.

Can mercaptamine cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
Feeling or being sick, indigestionDrink plenty of liquid. Stick to simple foods
DiarrhoeaDrink plenty of water to replace lost fluids
DrowsinessMake sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
Avoid alcohol; it will increase any feelings of drowsiness
Breath/body odourUse of mints/deodorants may help in the short term
HeadacheAsk your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If the headache continues, speak with your doctor
Skin rash, loss of weight, fever and tirednessIf any of these are troublesome, speak to your doctor

Important: If you develop difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, mouth or throat, then contact a doctor straight away or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store mercaptamine

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • British National Formulary; 56th Edition (September 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2009DocID: 1076DocRef: dils3797Last Reviewed: 12 May 2009Version: 24
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