Description

Probenecid is a uricosuric agent that helps the kidneys remove uric acid from the body by inhibiting renal tubular reabsorption of urate. It is often used as a second-line treatment for chronic gout, particularly in patients who cannot tolerate xanthine oxidase inhibitors or have not achieved target serum urate levels with other treatments. A study by Pui et al. (2013) showed that probenecid can significantly increase uric acid excretion and lower serum urate levels in patients with gout. However, probenecid is less effective in patients with reduced renal function and may increase the risk of kidney stones in some individuals. It's important to maintain adequate hydration when taking probenecid to minimize this risk. Probenecid can also interact with various medications, including antibiotics and NSAIDs, so careful consideration of a patient's complete medication profile is essential.