Table 1 Currently available oral treatments for Wilson’s disease
Drug | Mode of action | Side effects | |
|---|---|---|---|
D-Penicillamine | General chelator induces renal excretion of copper | • Neurological deterioration • Fever and cutaneous eruptions, lymphadenopathy, neutropenia or thrombocytopenia, and proteinuria • Nephrotoxicity • Bone marrow toxicity • Dermatological toxicities | |
Trientine | General chelator induces renal excretion of copper | • Bone marrow depression • Hepatotoxicity • Neurological dysfunction | |
Zinc | Metallothionein inducer, blocks intestinal copper absorption | • Gastrointestinal irritation • Numbness of the lips and limbs • Decreased immune function • Increased serum cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels | |
Dimercaptosuccinic acid | General chelator induces renal excretion of copper | • Neurological deterioration: mainly manifested as increased muscular tension, mental symptoms appear or worsen. • Digestive tract reactions: mainly manifested as fatigue, abdominal distension, and decreased appetite • Allergic reaction: mainly manifested as fever, drug rash. •Gum bleeding: |