Chelates heavy metals (copper, lead, mercury) forming soluble complexes excreted in urine. In Wilson's disease equivalent (copper-associated hepatopathy), it removes hepatic copper stores. Also has immunomodulating and anti-fibrotic properties.
At a glance
Class
Chelating Agent / Antirheumatic
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from moisture
Dosing
Used for copper storage hepatopathy (Bedlington Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, W
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Hepatic enzymes and copper levels (hepatic biopsy periodically)CBC (for cytopenias)Urinalysis and renal functionClinical improvement
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Penicillamine?
Penicillamine is a chelating agent / antirheumatic used in pets. Chelates heavy metals (copper, lead, mercury) forming soluble complexes excreted in urine. In Wilson's disease equivalent (copper-associated hepatopathy), it removes hepatic copper stores. Also has immunomodulating and anti-fibrotic properties.
›What is Penicillamine used for in pets?
Penicillamine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for copper storage hepatopathy (Bedlington Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, W; Limited feline data.
›What is the Penicillamine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Penicillamine is typically dosed as follows — Used for copper storage hepatopathy (Bedlington Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, W: 10–15 mg/kg PO q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Penicillamine dose for cats?
For cats, Penicillamine is typically dosed as follows — Limited feline data: 10–15 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Penicillamine need a prescription?
Yes. Penicillamine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database