Probenecid
Key points
- PROBENECID (Benemid®, Probalan®) helps to remove excess uric acid from the body.
- Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
- If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose.
- Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products.
Probenecid tablets
What are probenecid tablets? PROBENECID (Benemid®, Probalan®) helps to remove excess uric acid from the body. Uric acid can cause gout or gouty arthritis. Probenecid is not a cure for gout, but can help to prevent recurring gouty attacks. It is not for use in treating an attack of gout, and can make an attack worse. Certain illnesses or medications can cause an increase in uric acid. Probenecid can help to reduce the risk of complications (such as kidney stones) that may arise as a result of an increase in uric acid levels (hyperuricemia). Probenecid can also help to prolong the action of certain antibiotics and make them more effective. Generic probenecid tablets are available.
What should my health care professional know before I take probenecid?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- blood disorders or disease
- kidney disease, or kidney stones
- recent radiation therapy
- stomach ulcers
- an unusual or allergic reaction to probenecid, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take probenecid tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What drug(s) may interact with probenecid?
- alcohol
- allopurinol
- antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen)
- antibiotics including penicillins
- antiviral medicines such as acyclovir, famciclovir, ganciclovir
- aspirin and aspirin-like medicines
- clofibrate
- diazoxide
- entacapone
- ethambutol
- heparin
- lorazepam
- mecamylamine
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
