What is probenecid?
Probenecid helps your body pass uric acid out through the urine, which lowers the levels of uric acid in the body.
Probenecid is used to treat gout and gouty arthritis. Probenecid is also sometimes given together with penicillin antibiotics to make them more effective.
Probenecid may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about probenecid?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to probenecid, or if you have uric acid kidney stones, a gout attack that has already started, or a blood cell disorder such as anemia, or decreased white blood cells. Probenecid should not be given to a child younger than 2 years old.
Before taking probenecid, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have kidney disease, a history of stomach ulcer, or if you have ever had kidney stones.
Drink plenty of water to prevent kidney stones while you are taking probenecid.
Probenecid may be only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, other medications, and mineral supplements. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Call your doctor at once if you have worsening gout symptoms, severe pain in your side or lower back, blood in your urine, swelling, fever, pale or yellowed skin, or dark-colored urine.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking probenecid?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to probenecid, or if you have:
uric acid kidney stones;
a gout attack that has already started; or
a blood cell disorder such as anemia, or decreased white blood cells.
Before taking probenecid, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take probenecid.
Probenecid may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether probenecid passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Probenecid should not be given to a child younger than 2 years old.