About cysteamine
Cystine-depleting agent
Used for
- Treats nephropathic cystinosis by lowering cystine buildup in cells.
Usual adult dose
Immediate-release capsules: usually 1.3 g/m²/day by mouth, divided every six hours; adjusted to cystine levels.
Usual dose in children
Usually 1.3 g/m²/day by mouth, divided every six hours; adjusted to cystine levels.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or diarrhea
- Bad breath or unusual body odor
- Rash or skin changes
- Fatigue or headache
Important warnings
- Can cause stomach or intestinal ulcers and bleeding.
- Serious skin and bone changes can occur with long-term treatment.
- Take exactly as prescribed; missed doses can reduce cystine control.
- Regular blood tests and clinical monitoring are needed.
Pregnancy
Human pregnancy data are limited; use only when the expected benefit outweighs potential fetal risk.
Breastfeeding
It is unknown whether cysteamine passes into breast milk; breastfeeding is generally not recommended during treatment.
Interactions
- Cysteamine may interact with medicines that affect stomach acidity or intestinal absorption.
- Taking with food may reduce stomach upset but can alter absorption; follow product-specific instructions.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.