D-Pencillamine

D-Penicillamine is a medication with several key functions in the body:

• Chelation: It acts as a chelating agent, meaning it binds to certain metals like copper, lead, and mercury. This binding creates a complex that's then eliminated through urine, reducing the body's burden of these metals.
• Cystine Reduction: In cystinuria, a condition causing high levels of the amino acid cystine to form kidney stones, D-penicillamine binds to cystine, making it more soluble and easier to pass through urine.
• Immunosuppression (for rheumatoid arthritis): Though the exact mechanism isn't fully understood, D-penicillamine can suppress the immune system's activity, potentially helping to manage rheumatoid arthritis.

Here's a breakdown of its uses:

• Primary use: Wilson's disease (copper buildup)
• Other uses:
  • Cystinuria (cystine kidney stones)
  • Severe rheumatoid arthritis (unresponsive to other treatments)
  • Heavy metal poisoning (lead, mercury)