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Adverse Events with D-penicillamine Therapy in Hepatic Wilson's Disease: A Single-Center Retrospective Audit
Sanjay Kumar1, Biswa Ranjan Patra1, Mohammed Irtaza1
1Department of Gastroenterology, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Gastroenterology office, 9th floor, New Building, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India.
Abstract:
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: There are limited data on the adverse events of D-penicillamine in Wilson's disease (WD) that can result in dose modification or treatment discontinuation. The objective of this study was to observe the adverse events related to D-penicillamine in patients with hepatic WD.
Methods:
A retrospective audit of prospectively registered hepatic WD patients at a tertiary care center between December 2006 and January 2020 was carried out. Demographic variables, laboratory parameters, and details of treatment were noted. Adverse events (AEs) related to D-penicillamine treatment, the timing and management of these AEs were analysed.
Results:
The study included 112 patients with hepatic WD on D-penicillamine. D-penicillamine intolerance was seen in 28/112 (25%) over 179 person-years. Of the 28 AEs, severe AEs leading to permanent D-penicillamine discontinuation occurred in 16 (57%) [never reintroduced 12 (43%), discontinued after intolerant to rechallenge, 4 (14%)], temporary cessation followed by reintroduction to initial dose 13 (46%) and continuation with reduced dose in 3 (11%) patients. Overall, most common AEs were hematological [16, 57% (pancytopenia n = 8, bicytopenia n = 5 and hemolytic anemia n = 3)] while renal adverse events (n = 7, 25%) constituted the most common indication for permanent discontinuation. Cytopenias developed beyond 12 months of D-penicillamine initiation whereas hemolytic anemia developed within first 3 months. Following D-penicillamine discontinuation in 25 patients, it was reintroduced to initial dose in 13/25 (52%), switched to trientine due to neurological worsening in 2/25 (8%) and switched to zinc in 10/25 (40%). In patients with reintroduction, gradual dose escalation was tolerated in 9/13 (69%) with a recurrence of AEs leading to permanent discontinuation in 4/13 (31%).
Conclusion:
D-penicillamine treatment is associated with significant AEs mainly related to blood, kidney, and skin. Temporary cessation of drug with reintroduction at a lower dose is an effective and safe option.
Insights
D-penicillamine causes adverse events in 25% of Wilson
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Limited data exist on D-penicillamine adverse events in Wilson's disease (WD).
- Hepatic WD patients often require dose modification or treatment cessation due to adverse events.
- Understanding these adverse events is crucial for effective WD management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the adverse events associated with D-penicillamine in patients with hepatic Wilson's disease.
- To analyze the incidence, nature, and management of D-penicillamine-related adverse events.
- To identify factors influencing treatment discontinuation and reintroduction strategies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective audit of prospectively registered hepatic WD patients (December 2006 - January 2020).
- Analysis of demographic variables, laboratory parameters, and treatment details.
- Detailed examination of D-penicillamine adverse events, their timing, and management strategies.
Main Results:
- D-penicillamine intolerance occurred in 25% of 112 hepatic WD patients.
- Hematological (57%) and renal (25%) adverse events were most common.
- Temporary cessation with dose reintroduction was effective in 69% of cases, but 31% experienced recurrent adverse events.
Conclusions:
- D-penicillamine treatment is linked to significant adverse events, primarily affecting blood, kidney, and skin.
- Temporary drug cessation and reintroduction at a lower dose represent a safe and effective management approach.
- Careful monitoring and individualized treatment adjustments are essential for managing D-penicillamine therapy in WD.
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