Febuxostat
Drug Class: Uric acid reducer (Xanthine oxidase inhibitor)
Brand Names: Uloric
Dosages
40 to 80 mg once daily. Dose may be adjusted to achieve a blood uric acid level lower than 6 mg/dL.
Potential Side Effects
Gout flares; joint pain; liver function problems; nausea; rash
Special Instructions
Febuxostat is used to manage hyperuricemia (excess uric acid) in patients who have inadequate response to or cannot take allopurinol. It is not recommonded to treat asymptomatic hyperurecimia.
Be Aware
Do not take febuxostat if you also take azathioprine, mercaptopurine, pegloticase or didanosine. Your doctor will monitor you if you also take methotrexate or theophylline.
Your doctor may order blood tests to check your liver function while you are taking this medication. Acute gout attacks are common when this drug is started. These attacks may be reduced by gradually increasing the dose and taking an anti-inflammatory medication for the first 6 to 12 months of therapy.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2019 issued its strongest safety warning for febuxostat. A post-marketing study found a higher risk of death from cardiovascular events with febuxostat than with a rival gout medicine, allopurinol (Zyloprim). Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits of gout medication with your doctor.
LAST UPDATED: 09/15/2021
