Probenecid is a uricosuric medication used for the treatment of gout and gouty arthritis. It is used to prevent painful gout attacks. It does not cure gout, nor does it treat a gout attack that is already occurring.

This medication is also prescribed in conjunction with certain antibiotics to treat bacterial infections. Probenecid ensures the efficacy of antibiotic medication by preventing the body from passing it through urine.

Probenecid is used for the treatment of gout. Gout is a form of arthritis that is caused by too much uric acid in the body. Too much uric acid leads to the build-up of uric crystals in the joints, fluid, and tissue of the body.

Gout frequently occurs in episodes known as “gout attacks”. It is during these spells that symptoms occur. Gout attacks can flare up suddenly and often occur at night. Episodes of gout may last anywhere from a few days to a week or two. These attacks may recur in the same joint over and over again or may affect other joints in the body such as the wrist, knees, or elbows.

Common symptoms of gout include:

• Intense, sharp joint pain
  
• Joint discomfort (often lingering after an attack)
  
• Inflammation
  
• Redness
  
• Swelling
  
• Tenderness
  
• Burning, or warm feelings in the affected area
  
• Limited range of motion
  

In addition to its use as a preventative measure against gout attacks, probenecid may be prescribed to help improve the efficacy of certain antibiotic medications.

Probenecid is classified as a uricosuric agent. These drugs work by removing excess uric acid from the body. It blocks the reabsorption of uric acid in the body, making it easier for the body to flush it out via urine.

It should be noted that probenecid is not used to cure gout, nor can it be used to treat a gout attack that is already occurring. When taken regularly over the course of several months probenecid’s effect on uric acid levels prevents gout attacks from occurring.

Probenecid has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these adverse reactions do not go away within a few days.

Common side effects reported from probenecid use include:

• Headache
  
• Joint pain
  
• Dizziness
  
• Loss of appetite
  
• Nausea and vomiting
  

This is not a complete list of adverse effects – though these are the most common. Seek medical attention right away if you experience symptoms such as swelling, abnormal bleeding, difficulty breathing, rash, or chest pain while taking probenecid.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, as well as any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before taking probenecid. Probenecid can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects. In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with budesonide. If you become pregnant while taking probenecid, inform your health care provider immediately.

Probenecid is commonly supplied as an oral tablet usually taken twice a day. The exact dosage will vary depending on the age of the patient and their body weight.

Probenecid can be taken with or without food. If the dosage causes nausea or stomach pain, it is recommended that you take the medication with food. If this doesn’t help, it may be taken with an antacid. In addition, you should drink at least 8-12 glasses of water a day to prevent kidney stones.

Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of probenecid without consulting your doctor first. Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

Probenecid is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not probenecid is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for probenecid to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.