Depen is a prescription medication that is used to treat a number of conditions including Wilson’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis and to reduce urine levels in people with cystinuria. Depen contains penicillamine and works by removing excess copper in the blood stream.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Depen should be taken on an empty stomach. Take this medication either one hour before or two hours after a meal.
• Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Do not drink milk within an hour of taking Depen.
• Your condition may worsen when you first start taking this medication.
• Depen may be prescribed as part of a treatment plan that may also include a special diet.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications, especially gold injections, malaria medications or cancer medication.
• Your medical history particularly of kidney disease, damaged blood cells, liver disease, stomach ulcers or a weak immune system.
• If you are malnourished.
• If you are pregnant. You may not be able to take this medication.

You should also know:

• This medication may be taken with a diet plan. Follow your doctor’s directions carefully.
• Depen should not be used if you are breast-feeding.

Common side effects of Depen include but are not limited to:

• Wounds that do not heal.
• Skin changes including pimples or wrinkling.
• Decreased sense of taste.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Numbness or tingling.
• Loss of appetite.
• Stomach pain.
• Diarrhea.
• Ringing in the ears.

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of penicillamine.

• New or worsening joint pain.
• Fever.
• Double vision.
• Breathing problems.
• New or worsening cough.
• Urine that is painful, burns, bloody, or foamy.
• Lower back pain.
• Breathing problems.
• Skin rash or peeling.
• Swelling in the hands, legs, or feet.
• Watery blisters.
• Muscle weakness in the face, arms, and legs.
• Drooping eyelids.
• Trouble swallowing or chewing.
• Mouth ulcers or blisters
• Red or swollen gums.
• Signs of a low blood cell count such as fever, pale skin, cold hands and feet, skin sores, chills, tiredness, unusual bleeding, easy bruising, shortness of breath or lightheadedness.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives or swelling in your face, lips or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Depen?

If you miss a dose of Depen, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

What else is Depen called?

Depen is also known as D-Penamine internationally. D-Penamine is the same brand name medication with a different name internationally and is not a generic alternative medication. Generic Depen is called penicillamine.