Health Library

Trientine (By mouth)

Trientine Hydrochloride (TRYE-en-teen hye-droe-KLOR-ide)

Treats Wilson's disease (high levels of copper in the body).

Brand Name(s):

Syprine

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet

• Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
• It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach. Take this medicine at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, and at least 1 hour apart from any food, milk, or other medicines.
• Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, chew, or dissolve it.
• If you are unable to swallow the tablet, you may divide the it into half.
• During the first month of treatment, you may need to take your temperature each night.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Remove the tablet from the blister pack only at the time of dosing. Do not store it for future use after opening the blister.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Take this medicine at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking iron supplements or 1 hour before or 2 hours after taking calcium, magnesium, or zinc.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Copper deficiency
  • Iron deficiency
• This medicine may worsen your symptoms (including nerve problems) at the start of treatment. Talk with your doctor if you have any concerns about this.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Fever, chills, sore throat, loss of appetite, pale skin
• Bone fractures, problems with memory or walking
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Hair loss
• Mood changes
• Constipation, diarrhea, stomach pain

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024