In a subset of people, it is not uncommon for the virus to return, and people can remain on lamivudine until measurements of HBV in the blood are reduced. The long-term effects of this drug are unknown. The most effective medication in increasing the body's ability to excrete excess copper in the urine, the cause of liver damage in Wilson's disease. However, about 30 percent of people have side effects such as gastrointestinal disorders, joint pain, protein in the urine, or blood disorders. This medication should be used in conjunction with a low copper diet.
Treatment is lifelong.
An alternative medication for those that cannot tolerate penicillamine, trientine also excretes excess copper in the urine and reduces the amount of copper absorbed by the intestines. Most be taken one hour before or two hours after any food, milk, or other medications. This medication should be used in conjunction with a low copper diet. Zinc Oral zinc is the other medication used to treat Wilson's Disease. Zinc competes with copper for absorption and may be used with meals to decrease copper absorption from the intestinal tract.