D-penicillamine
D-penicillamine (pronounced as dee pen i sill' a meen) is a chelating agent used in the treatment of Wilson's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and cystinuria. It is also used as an antidote for copper, mercury, arsenic, and lead poisoning.
Etymology
The term "D-penicillamine" is derived from its discovery as a breakdown product of penicillin, although it does not possess any antibiotic properties. The "D" in D-penicillamine refers to the specific optical isomer used, which in this case is the D- or dextrorotatory isomer.
Pharmacology
D-penicillamine works by binding to heavy metals in the body, forming a stable, soluble complex that is then excreted in the urine. This process is known as chelation therapy. In the case of Wilson's disease, D-penicillamine helps to remove excess copper from the body. In rheumatoid arthritis, its mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is believed to work by reducing levels of rheumatoid factor and other immune complexes.
Related Terms
- Chelation therapy
- Wilson's disease
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Cystinuria
- Heavy metal poisoning
- Optical isomer
- Rheumatoid factor
- Immune complexes
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on D-penicillamine
- Wikipedia's article - D-penicillamine
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