How It Works
Tiopronin helps keep cystine dissolved in the urine, which makes cystine kidney stones less likely to form.
Why It Is Used
Tiopronin may be used to prevent kidney stones in people with high levels of cystine in their urine.
Side Effects
Side effects of tiopronin may include:
- Yellow skin color (jaundice).
- Kidney damage.
- Rash.
- Reduced production of blood cells in the bone marrow.
- Joint pain.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Tiopronin is less likely to cause side effects than penicillamine, another medicine used to prevent cystine kidney stones.
People usually try other treatments to prevent kidney stones before using this medicine.
Some people may find it difficult to drink enough liquid while taking this medicine.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF)
(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
Credits
| Author | Monica Rhodes |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Philip Belitsky, MD, FRCSC - Urology |
| Last Updated | May 30, 2007 |
