Kionex (Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate Suspension) and Penicillamine

• Generic Name: sodium polystyrene sulfonate
• Dosage Forms: oral / rectal suspension
• Other Brand Names: Kalexate, Kayexalate, Kionex

• It is used to treat high potassium levels.

• Generic Name: penicillamine
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Cuprimine, Depen, D-Penamine, Depen Titratabs

Penicillamine is a chelating (KEE-late-ing) agent that binds to excess copper and removes it from the blood stream. In certain conditions, excess copper can build up in the blood stream, leading to tissue damage throughout the body.

Penicillamine is used to remove excess copper in people with an inherited condition called Wilson's disease.

Penicillamine is also used to reduce urine levels of an amino acid called cystine, which can cause stones to form in the kidneys and bladder in people with an inherited condition called cystinuria.

Penicillamine is also used to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis after other medicines have been tried without success. Penicillamine is not approved to treat juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

Penicillamine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.