Probenecid

Probenecid treats gout and is also used with antibiotics to boost their effectiveness. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication to avoid developing kidney stones.

Probenecid Overview

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Probenecid is a prescription medication used to treat high uric acid levels associated with gout and gouty arthritis. It is also used to increase the effectiveness of some antibiotics. Probenecid belongs to a group of drugs called renal tubular blocking agents. For gout and gouty arthritis, it works on the kidneys to help the body get rid of uric acid. It increases the effectiveness of antibiotics by preventing the body from eliminating them in the urine.

This medication comes as a tablet to take by mouth and is usually taken twice a day, with food, for gout and gouty arthritis. When taken with antibiotics, it is normally taken 4 times a day. Probenacid should be taken with plenty of water.

Common side effects of probenacid include headache, vomiting, nausea, and loss of appetite.

Probenecid can also cause dizziness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how probenecid affects you.

How was your experience with Probenecid?

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What are you taking Probenecid for?

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  • Other
  • Gonorrhea
  • Gout
  • Neurosyphilis

How long have you been taking it?

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  • Less than a week
  • A couple weeks
  • A month or so
  • A few months
  • A year or so
  • Two years or more

How well did Probenecid work for you?

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Uses of Probenecid

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Probenecid is a prescription medication used to lower uric acid levels associated with gout and gouty arthritis and prevent attacks. Gout is a form of arthritis that causes attacks of sudden burning pain, stiffness, and swelling in a joint (usually a toe). It is also used to increase the effectiveness of some antibiotics.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Probenecid Brand Names

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Probenecid may be found in some form under the following brand names:

Probenecid Drug Class

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Probenecid is part of the drug class:

Side Effects of Probenecid

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Serious side effects have been reported with probenecid. See the "Probenecid Precautions" section.

Common side effects of probenecid include the following:

  • headache
  • dizziness
  • worsening of a gouty arthritis attack
  • vomiting
  • nausea
  • loss of appetite
  • sore gums
  • increased urination
  • fever
  • itching
  • hair loss
  • skin rash

This is not a complete list of probenecid side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.