MedPath

Triethylenetetramine

Generic Name
Triethylenetetramine
Brand Names
Cuvrior, Syprine, Cuprior, Cufence
Drug Type
Small Molecule
Chemical Formula
C6H18N4
CAS Number
112-24-3
Unique Ingredient Identifier
SJ76Y07H5F
Background

Triethylenetatramine (TETA), also known as trientine, is a potent and selective copper (II)-selective chelator. It is a structural analog of linear polyamine compounds, spermidine and spermine. TETA was first developed in Germany in 1861 and its chelating properties were first recognized in 1925. Initially approved by the FDA in 1985 as a second-line treatment for Wilson's disease, TETA is currently indicated to treat adults with stable Wilson’s disease who are de-coppered and tolerant to penicillamine.

TETA has been investigated in clinical trials for the treatment of heart failure in patients with diabetes.

Indication

Triethylenetetramine is a copper chelator indicated for the treatment of adult patients with stable Wilson’s disease who are de-coppered and tolerant to penicillamine.

Associated Conditions
Wilson's Disease

Orphalan Makes History as First European Company to Enter China's Wilson Disease Market with "Ke Pei Ou"

• Orphalan has launched trientine tetrahydrochloride ("Ke Pei Ou") in China through a strategic partnership with SPH Kyuan Trade, becoming the first European company to introduce an orphan drug for Wilson disease in this market. • The treatment addresses a critical unmet need for Chinese Wilson disease patients who cannot tolerate penicillamine, the previous standard therapy, offering an alternative that is already available in over 20 countries globally. • Orphalan has established a local entity in Shanghai led by Grace Li as General Manager, demonstrating its commitment to ensuring Chinese patients and healthcare providers have access to advanced Wilson disease treatment options.

Cuprior Shows Promise in Treating High-Risk Neuroblastoma in Children

• A new study suggests that triethylenetetramine (TETA), known as Cuprior, can improve outcomes for children with high-risk neuroblastoma. • Cuprior weakens tumors by transferring copper to immune cells and boosts the immune system's ability to fight the disease. • Researchers suggest Cuprior could improve current immunotherapy results, potentially increasing survival rates from 10 to 50 percent. • Repurposing existing drugs like Cuprior saves time and money compared to developing new treatments, offering a non-toxic option with minimal side effects.
© Copyright 2025. All Rights Reserved by MedPath