Low levels of copper have been associated with mental retardation, depigmentation, anaemia, hypotonia and scorbutic changes in bone.

The depigmentation generally occurs as a gradual lightening of the skin, not as new spots of vitiligo.

This drug has one use: to remove remaining pigment in those with extensive vitiligo. It is not to be used for general skin lightening or the removal of freckles or other pigmentary disorders.