Indications
Benuryl is a prescription medication primarily used to treat and prevent gout. It contains an active ingiedent called Probenecid. Probenecid belongs to the class of medications called uricosurics. It works by reducing the amount of uric acid in the body by causing more uric acid to be eliminated in urine.
Benuryl may also be used in combination with certain antibiotics to prolong their action, or to lower blood levels of uric acid. However, it is not useful for treatment of a gout attack.
Use and Dosage
To prevent gout, take Probenecid Tablet by mouth usually twice daily with food or antacids to reduce stomach upset, or as directed by your doctor. Drink a full glass of water with each dose and at least eight more glasses (8 ounces each) per day while taking the tablet to prevent kidney stones, unless instructed otherwise by your doctor due to fluid intake restrictions. Your doctor may also advise you on how to decrease urine acidity to prevent kidney stones, such as avoiding large amounts of ascorbic acid/vitamin C.
Dosage will vary depending on your condition and how you respond to therapy, and your doctor may start you on a low dose and adjust it based on your uric acid levels and symptoms. Wait until your gout attack is over before starting Probenecid, and if you experience a gout attack while taking it, continue taking it along with your prescribed pain medication. Probenecid does not relieve pain, and if you are taking it to increase antibiotic levels in your body, follow your doctor's instructions on when to take the antibiotic and when to take Probenecid. Use the tablet regularly to get the maximum benefit and take it at the same times daily to help you remember.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Benuryl (Probenecid):
- Dizziness
- Flushing or redness of face (occurring without any signs of an allergic reaction)
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Headache
- Joint pain, redness, or swelling
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting (mild)
- Sore gums
Serious Side Effects of Benuryl (Probenecid):
- Bloody urine
- Cloudy urine
- Cough or hoarseness
- Difficult or painful urination
- Fast or irregular breathing
- Fever
- Lower back or side pain (especially if severe or sharp)
- Pain in back or ribs
- Skin rash, hives, or itching (occurring without other signs of an allergic reaction)
- Sore throat and fever, with or without chills
- Sores, ulcers, or white spots on lips or in mouth
- Sudden decrease in amount of urine
- Swelling of face, fingers, feet, or lower legs
- Swollen or painful glands
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Yellow eyes or skin
- Weight gain
Forms and Strength
Benuryl (Probenecid) is available in the following forms and strength:
Probenecid: Tablet
- 500 mg
Cautions
- Benuryl increased risk of aplastic anemia, leukopenia, and hemolytic anemia.
- Benuryl should not be used by children younger than 2 years old.
- Probenecid may interact with other medications, especially those that affect kidney function.
- Benuryl should not be used by individuals with a history of kidney disease or kidney stones.
- Probenecid may cause dizziness or lightheadedness and impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
- Benuryl should be used with caution in individuals with liver disease or a history of peptic ulcer disease.
- Benuryl may increase the risk of gout attacks when therapy is initiated.
- Probenecid should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless advised by a healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for Benuryl to work?
It may take several weeks for Benuryl to start reducing the levels of uric acid in the body. You may need to continue taking it for several months to see the full benefits.
Can Benuryl be used to treat kidney stones?
Benuryl may be used to treat kidney stones caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the urine. It works by reducing the levels of uric acid, which can help to dissolve the stones.
Can I stop taking Benuryl once my gout symptoms go away?
Continue taking Benuryl even if your gout symptoms go away. This is because gout is a chronic condition, and stopping the medication can cause a gout attack to occur.
Is Benuryl addictive?
No, Benuryl is not addictive and does not have any potential for abuse.
Is it safe to take Benuryl with alcohol?
Do not drink alcohol while taking Benuryl, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as stomach upset and dizziness.
Can I take Benuryl if I have kidney disease?
Benuryl may not be safe to take if you have kidney disease. Talk to your doctor before taking Benuryl if you have any kidney problems.
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