Probenecid is used to reduce the high level of uric acid in your body.
Build-up of uric acid in your body can cause gout, gouty arthritis, kidney or urinary tract stones. This medicine is used to prevent or treat these conditions.
Probenecid may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
Take Probenecid exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with food to reduce any stomach discomfort that it may cause. Try to take it at the same time each day.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on your condition and your response to the medication.
Probenecid must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- blood disorder
- kidney stones
as Probenecid may not be suitable for you.
Do not give this medicine to children below 2 years old unless instructed by the doctor.
Do not take Probenecid with aspirin (medicine for pain and inflammation).
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- peptic ulcer (open sores in the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or lower food pipe)
- kidney disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Probenecid to a child aged 2 years and above. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
For as long as you are taking this medicine, you may need to have regular blood tests (e.g. kidney function, complete blood count, blood uric acid levels) to check your body's response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have blood tests.
Probenecid may cause any of the following side effects: nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, itching, flushing, and hair loss.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
- blood in the urine, pain in passing urine, severe pain in your back or side, fever, chills
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not take Probenecid with aspirin (medicine for pain and inflammation).
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- certain antibiotics e.g. dapsone
- lorazepam (medicine for anxiety)
- certain medicines to treat TB (lung infection known as tuberculosis) e.g. rifampicin, pyrazinamide
- medicines for pain and inflammation e.g. naproxen, indometacin, ketoprofen
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Probenecid.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
In order to prevent future gout attacks, it is important to be mindful of your diet:
Avoid excessive alcohol intake. Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.
Avoid foods high in purine, such as organ meat, seafood and oily fish. Other foods with purine content, such as meat, poultry, or fish, may be eaten in moderation.
Eat a healthy and balanced diet low in highly processed foods and refined sugar (sugar that is commonly found in processed foods including soft drinks, candies, and canned fruits).
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.