Trientine

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About Trientine

This belongs to the group of medicines known as metabolics.

Trientine is used to treat Wilson's disease, a disease which causes a build up of copper in the body.

It works by helping the body remove the excess copper.

Trientine is available in capsule form.

Before Taking Trientine

Before taking trientine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

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

How to Take Trientine

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Avoid taking indigestion remedies or medicines containing iron or zinc at the same time as trientine. Indigestion remedies and medicines containing iron or zinc should be taken two hours before or two hours after a dose of trientine.
• Take trientine capsules half to one hour before food.
• Try to take this medicine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of trientine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside trientine.

Can Trientine 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 to your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Feeling sick or skin rashes.

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

How to store Trientine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 20/09/2002   

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