Febuxostat

Information About Febuxostat

Uses of Febuxostat

Febuxostat is commonly used in the treatment of gout and tumour lysis syndrome complication during the treatment of cancer.

How Febuxostat Works

Febuxostat is a xanthine oxidase inhibitor. It inhibits the enzyme called xanthine oxidase that converts hypoxanthine to xanthine, then to uric acid. Thus, with no enzyme, uric acid production would decrease, and so would the concentration of uric acid in the body.

Side Effects of Febuxostat

Gout Flares, Headache, Dizziness, Diarrhea, Nausea, Rashes, Swelling of joints, Vomiting, Dry Mouth, Abdominal pain

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Febuxostat Related Warnings

Alcohol Safe

It is generally safe to consume Febuxostat with alcohol. However, alcohol itself does increase urate levels in the blood so it may cause gout flares.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Febuxostat may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown low risk on the foetus however the effects of Febuxostat on humans were not studied. The benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk. Please consult your doctor.

Lactation Not Advisable

Febuxostat is not safe for breastfeeding as it may be excreted in breast milk. It is only proven in animal studies and it shows impairment in the development of baby animals. This risk cannot be excluded in humans thus it isn't safe.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Febuxostat may cause side effects such as sleepiness, dizziness, numbness or blurred vision, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Kidney Use With Care

Febuxostat should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease as it is excreted via urine. Dose adjustment of Febuxostat may be needed so please consult your doctor.

Liver Use With Care

Febuxostat is also excreted partially by the liver and should be used with caution in patients with liver disease as dose adjustments may be needed. Please consult your doctor.