Benuryl

Common Name: probenecid

How does Benuryl work?

Probenecid belongs to the class of medications called uricosurics. It is used to treat and prevent gout. It is not useful for treatment of a gout attack that is currently taking place. It may also be used to increase the levels of certain types of antibiotics in the blood. Probenecid acts by decreasing levels of uric acid, which causes gout, in the blood. It acts on the kidney to pass uric acid in the urine. Probenecid also acts on the kidney to prevent certain antibiotics, such as penicillin, from being passed in the urine. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Benuryl?

The recommended adult dose of probenecid is one-half tablet (250 mg) twice a day for one week, followed by 1 tablet (500 mg) twice a day after that. The maximum dose is usually 4 tablets (2 g) daily. Doses for children are based on body weight. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken on a regular schedule as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Benuryl come in?

Each white, round, scored tablet, imprinted "ICN B11", contains probenecid 500 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, starch, and talc.

What should I NOT take with Benuryl?

Probenecid should not be taken by anyone who: is allergic to probenecid or to any of ingredients of the medication is under two years of age has known blood disorders has uric acid kidney stones is having an acute gout attack (wait until the attack has gone away)

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Benuryl?

Allergies: If you have a serious allergic reaction to probenecid, you will need to stop taking this medication. Stomach ulcer: People with a history of stomach ulcers should use probenecid with caution and report any recurring stomach ulcer symptoms to their doctor. Use of salicylates: People who take this medication should not use salicylates (e.g., ASA) in either small or large doses because it reduces the effects of probenecid. People who take probenecid who require a mild pain reliever should use acetaminophen rather than small doses of salicylates. Pregnancy: If you are or may be pregnant, talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of using this medication. Breast-feeding: It is not known if probenecid passes into breast milk. Because many medications do pass into breast milk, nursing mothers should use probenecid with caution.