Trientine Dihydrochloride
The goal of drug therapy in individuals with Wilson’s Disease is to remove excess copper from the body and prevent ongoing copper accumulation. Drug therapy therefore must be life long.
Trientine Dihydrochloride (Trientine) acts by binding to excess copper in the body resulting in increased urinary excretion.
Trientine is indicated in patients that are intolerant of D-Penicillamine. Trientine has been effectively used in the treatment of Wilson's Disease since 1969.
Summary of Product Characteristics contains all relevant prescribing information about Trientine capsules.
Treatment Compliance.
Taking your Trientine capsules according to your physician's instruction is particularly important to successfully managing Wilson's Disease; even if you do not show any symptoms in the case of asymptomatic patients.
It has been estimated that approximately 10-50% of patients on medical therapy for Wilson's Disease have periods of non adherence (1). Discontinuation of treatment can lead to hepatic inflammation and damage, neurological and psychiatric compromise, hepatic failure, and death. For those that survive, the injury resulting from non adherence leads to lengthy and costly hospitalizations, physical disability, and the need for rehabilitative and other chronic care services.
Wilson's Disease is a very treatable condition and many patients live a normal life expectancy which is made possible by taking their medicine as prescribed by their physician.
Roberts, E, Schilsky, ML. A practice guideline on Wilson Disease. Hepatology 2003;37:1475-92
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Each patient is strongly advised to consult with their physician about their individual cases.