Probenecid is used to increase uric acid excretion in the urine. It is primarily used to treat gout or arthritis. It can also be used to increase the blood levels of some antibiotics (for example penicillins).
What is Probenecid?
Probenecid works by increasing uric acid excretion in the urine.
How should Probenecid be taken?
Probenecid is typically administered orally in the form of tablets. The drug must be taken with an abundant amount of water.
Side effects associated with Probenecid
Among the possible side effects of probenecid include the following:
- Dizziness
- Redness
- Hair loss
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Inflammation of the gums
- Vomiting
It is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itch
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue
- Bloody or dark urine
- Chills
- Increased or decreased urination
- Fever
- Lower back, abdominal, genital or inner thigh pain
- Bleeding or bruising
- Excessive fatigue or weakness
- Worsening of gout
- Jaundice
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Probenecid
Probenecid should be avoided in children under the ages of two. Its intake should also be avoided in treating acute attack of gout.
It is also important to remember that the drug may affect the results of some laboratory tests. It can also impair the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery. The latter effect can be exacerbated when taken in combination with alcohol or other drugs.
Before taking probenecid, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drugs or food
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: salicylates, acidifying agents, pyrazinamide, paracetamol, beta-lactam antibiotics, cephalosporins, anesthetics, ganciclovir, indomethacin, lorazepam, methotrexate, NSAIDs, penicillins, rifampin, sulfonamide, sulfonylurea , theophylline, and zidovudine
- you are suffering (or have suffered) from blood disorders, kidney stones or other kidney problems, high levels of uric acid in the urine, gastrointestinal problems, diabetes or lack of G6PDH
- You are currently undergoing radiotherapy
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
It is also important to inform physicians, surgeons and dentists of any ongoing treatment with probenecid.
