Polyamine chelator that binds copper in the GI tract (preventing absorption) and in systemic circulation, promoting urinary copper excretion. Alternative to penicillamine for copper storage hepatopathy with fewer side effects.
At a glance
Class
Copper Chelating Agent
Dosing
Used for copper-associated hepatopathy (Bedlington Terriers, Labrador Retrievers
Feline copper hepatopathy is rare
Safety
Hepatic enzymes q3 monthsHepatic copper levels (biopsy)CBC (pancytopenia)Iron status with prolonged use
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Trientine?
Trientine is a copper chelating agent used in pets. Polyamine chelator that binds copper in the GI tract (preventing absorption) and in systemic circulation, promoting urinary copper excretion. Alternative to penicillamine for copper storage hepatopathy with fewer side effects.
›What is Trientine used for in pets?
Trientine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for copper-associated hepatopathy (Bedlington Terriers, Labrador Retrievers; Feline copper hepatopathy is rare.
›What is the Trientine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Trientine is typically dosed as follows — Used for copper-associated hepatopathy (Bedlington Terriers, Labrador Retrievers: 10–15 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Trientine dose for cats?
For cats, Trientine is typically dosed as follows — Feline copper hepatopathy is rare: undefined undefined PO N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Trientine need a prescription?
Yes. Trientine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
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.
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