Information about Uloric (Febuxostat)
Uloric is a prescription medication containing the active ingredient febuxostat, which is used to treat gout, a form of arthritis caused by an excess of uric acid in the blood. Uloric works by inhibiting xanthine oxidase, an enzyme involved in the production of uric acid, thus reducing its levels in the body and preventing gout attacks.
Product Highlights
- Uloric is primarily used for the long-term management of hyperuricemia (elevated uric acid levels) in patients with gout. It helps prevent gout flares by lowering uric acid levels in the blood.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Uloric is highly effective in reducing uric acid levels, which can help prevent painful gout attacks.
- It’s typically taken once a day, which helps improve patient adherence to the medication regimen.
- For patients who have side effects or poor responses to allopurinol, Uloric may be a better treatment option.
Direction of Use
- Uloric is usually prescribed as a once-daily oral medication. The initial dose is often 40 mg per day, but it can be increased to 80 mg per day if needed, depending on the patient’s response and uric acid levels.
- Uloric can be taken with or without food, and it should be swallowed whole with water.
- Your doctor will likely monitor your uric acid levels regularly to ensure that the medication is effectively lowering them.
Safety Concerns
- Febuxostat has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, especially in patients with existing heart disease. Your doctor will assess your heart health before prescribing it.
- Febuxostat can affect liver function, so liver function tests may be necessary before starting treatment and during therapy.
- As with any medication, there is a risk of an allergic reaction, including serious conditions like rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these occur.
- Uloric is not recommended for use in patients with severe kidney impairment.
Avoid Uloric (Febuxostat) If
- Do not use Uloric if you have had an allergic reaction to febuxostat or any other ingredients in the medication.
- Uloric is not recommended for individuals with severe cardiovascular disease, such as recent heart attack or unstable angina, due to the increased risk of heart-related side effects.
- Uloric should not be used in patients with severe liver dysfunction.
- Uloric is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as the effects on an unborn baby or infant are not fully known. Always consult a doctor if you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
