Name: D-penicillamine (Cuprimine)
Class: Slow-Acting Antirheumatic Agent
Mechanism: Unknown. Suppresses/modifies immune system & interacts w/leukocyte membrane receptors. Also chelates heavy metals (e.g., Pb, Hg, As, Cu).
Absorption: Oral.
Dist.: 80% protein bound.
Metabolism.:
Excretion, t½: Urine.
Toxicity/S.E.s: Mucocutaneous—pruritis, dermatitis. Renal—proteinuria,
nephrotic synd. Hematologic—thrombocytopenia, aplastic anemia. Pulmonary—hemorrhagic pneumonitis.
Utility: Treatment of patients w/rheumatoid arthritis who are unresponsive to NSAIDs or whose symptoms persist despite maximal tolerated doses of NSAIDs.
Special Features: