Published online Dec 15, 1998. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v4.i6.530
Revised: October 20, 1998
Accepted: November 24, 1998
Published online: December 15, 1998
AIM: To compare the long-term effect of succimer (Suc) with that of penicillamine (Pen) in treating hepatolenticular degeneration (HLD).
METHODS: One hundred and twenty patients with HLD were divided into 2 groups. Group A (n = 60) received Suc 750 mg, po. bid. Group B (n = 60) received Pen 250 mg, po. qid. The period of maintenance treatment varied from 6 months to 3 years, averaging 1.5 years. Symptoms and therapeutic effects were evaluated by modified Goldstein scale.
RESULTS: The total effectiveness of group A in two different periods of treatment were 80% and 85% respectively, higher than those of group B (58% and 59% respectively) (P < 0.05). Suc also had obvious curative effects for the patients who failed in the use of Pen. There were fewer side effect in group A than in group B (P < 0.05). Suc and Pen could increase urinary copper excretion effectively and continually.
CONCLUSION: Suc is more effective and safer than Pen. Clinically, it can replace Pen as first-choice drug for long-term maintenance therapy of HLD.