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Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Probenecid is employed in the treatment of chronic gout and gouty arthritis. Unlike treating acute gout attacks, its primary function is to prevent such attacks related to gout. Probenecid acts on the kidneys, facilitating the elimination of uric acid from the body. It is also used to enhance the effectiveness of certain antibiotics by preventing the body from excreting them in the urine. This mechanism increases the concentration of antibiotics in the body, thereby improving their therapeutic impact.
Uses and Dosage
To prevent gout, take probenecid orally, typically twice daily with food or antacids to reduce stomach upset, or as directed by your doctor. It is advisable to drink a full glass of water with each dose and consume at least another 8 glasses (8 ounces each) per day while using this medication to prevent kidney stones. If you have restricted fluid intake, consult your doctor for further instructions.
Your doctor may also provide guidance on how to decrease urine acidity (e.g., by avoiding large amounts of ascorbic acid/vitamin C) to prevent kidney stones. Additional medications, such as sodium bicarbonate or citrate, may be prescribed by your doctor to make your urine less acidic.
The dosage is determined by your condition and response to therapy. Your doctor may initially prescribe a low dose, adjusting it based on uric acid levels and your gout symptoms. Once you have been symptom-free for several months and your uric acid levels are normal, your doctor may decrease your probenecid dose to the lowest effective level. Follow your doctor’s instructions meticulously.
Probenecid should not be initiated during a sudden or severe gout attack. Wait until your current attack subsides before starting this medication. You may experience an increase in the frequency of gout attacks for several months after initiating this medicine as the body eliminates excess uric acid. If you have a gout attack while taking probenecid, continue taking it alongside your prescribed medications for gout pain.
It’s important to note that probenecid is not a pain reliever. To alleviate pain from gout, continue taking the medications prescribed for pain during gout attacks (such as colchicine, ibuprofen, indomethacin) as directed by your doctor.
If you are using this medication to enhance the levels of antibiotics in your body, follow your doctor’s instructions regarding when to take the antibiotic and when to take probenecid.
Take this medication regularly to derive the most benefit. Establish a consistent schedule for taking it at the same times each day.
Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- headache
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- dizziness
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- severe skin rash
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- unusual bleeding or bruising
Caution
- Before taking probenecid, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may cause allergic reactions or other issues.
- Certain medical conditions may contraindicate the use of this medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using probenecid if you have low blood counts or a specific type of kidney stone (uric acid).
- Provide your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have undergone cancer treatment, have a certain enzyme deficiency (G6PD), kidney problems, or peptic ulcer disease.
- This drug may induce dizziness. The combination of alcohol or marijuana with probenecid can intensify dizziness. Refrain from activities requiring alertness until you can do them safely.
- As kidney function naturally declines with age, and this medication is eliminated by the kidneys, elderly individuals may face an increased risk of side effects, including stomach problems, while using this drug.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when essential. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is unknown whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Benuryl is available in the following forms and strengths:
- probenecid tablet:
- 500 mg
FAQ
Should I drink a lot of water while taking Benuryl?
Yes. This medication may cause kidney stones or other kidney problems in some people. To help prevent this, your doctor may want you to drink at least 10 to 12 full glasses (8 ounces each) of fluids each day, or to take another medicine to make your urine less acidic.
Can you take Benuryl on an empty stomach?
Benuryl may cause an upset stomach, so it’s recommended to take it with a meal or snack.
Resources
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/benuryl#google_vignette
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/probenecid-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20065625?
- https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/probenecid-oral
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682395.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/probenecid.html
