Probenecid - AFT

Uses
Probenecid-AFT (Probenecid) is widely used as a gout treatment, and is also indicated for hyperuricaemia. This medicine is only used to prevent gout attacks and not to treat a gout attack that has already occurred (if used for this purpose, it may worsen the gout attack). The group of medicines to which this drug belongs is called uricosurics, and it acts in the kidneys to aid in the elimination of a substance called uric acid.

Excessively high levels of this acid can result in crystals forming in the joints, which then causes gout. In some cases, this medicine may be used in combination with penicillin antibiotics, so as to improve the effectiveness of the antibiotics. This is achieved by causing an increase in the blood levels of antibiotics.

Dosage and Administration
If you are treating gout, and your doctor has prescribed Probenecid-AFT (Probenecid) for you, it is important that you follow the dosage regimen that your doctor prescribes. Adults are sometimes told to take 250mg at 12 hour intervals for 1 week. Maintenance treatment generally requires the patient to take 500mg every 12 hours. If the prescribing doctor decides to do so, the dosage may be increased monthly in increments of 500mg. However, daily doses in excess of 2g are never prescribed.

When used as an adjunct to treatment with antibiotic medication, patients treating gonorrhoea may be told to take 1g by mouth, once, alongside the other antibiotic medication prescribed by the doctor. Patients who are treating neurosyphillis may be told by their doctor to take 500mg by mouth, 4 times per day, for a period of 10 to 14 days (alongside penicillin G procaine). In all cases, the medicine prescribed will be decided by a doctor.

Side effects
Treatment with Probenecid-AFT (Probenecid) can sometimes cause side effects, such as:

• Loss of hair
• Stomach upset
• A reduced appetite
• Pain affecting the gums
• Urinating more frequently than usual

Tell your doctor about any bothersome side effects. Serious side effects are less common. You will need the attention of a doctor straight away if you suffer from a worsening of your gout, bloody urine, severe back pain or any other symptoms indicative of a serious reaction.

Precautions
It is possible that patients will be told by their doctor to drink sufficient fluids so as to prevent uric acid stones from forming.

Your doctor may need to conduct urine or blood tests to ensure that this medicine is not causing any adverse effects.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Probenecid-AFT (Probenecid) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.