Febuxostat 20mg

Febuxostat 20mg — Uses and Benefits

Febuxostat 20mg is prescribed for long-term management of high uric acid levels (hyperuricemia), especially in people with gout.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Long-term treatment of chronic gout caused by excess uric acid
• Preventing recurrent gout attacks and formation of tophi (uric acid deposits)
• Managing uric acid levels in certain patients undergoing treatments that raise uric acid, as advised by the doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks an enzyme called xanthine oxidase that helps produce uric acid in the body
• Lowers the amount of uric acid formed, helping the body gradually reduce stored uric acid crystals
• Helps prevent new crystal formation in joints over time

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not relieve pain during a sudden, acute gout attack
• It is not a painkiller or anti-inflammatory medicine
• It is not used for general joint pain unrelated to high uric acid
• It is not meant for occasional or short-term use

How to Use Febuxostat 20mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food
• Swallow the tablet with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Continue taking it regularly even if you feel well, as it is a long-term treatment
• Drink plenty of water during treatment unless your doctor advises otherwise
• It may take several weeks to months to see the full benefit in reducing gout attacks

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as usual
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Febuxostat 20mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Joint pain
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Mild rash

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Abnormal liver function tests
• Dizziness
• Swelling in hands or feet
• Tiredness
• Increased or decreased frequency of gout flares when starting treatment

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of liver problems such as yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, severe fatigue
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or signs of heart problems
• Severe skin reactions like blistering, peeling skin, or widespread rash
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe stomach pain or signs of bleeding

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Febuxostat 20mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to febuxostat or any of its ingredients
• Are already taking azathioprine or mercaptopurine
• Have been advised against it by your doctor for a specific medical reason

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver disease or a history of liver problems
• Have kidney disease
• Have any heart disease, including history of heart attack, stroke, or heart failure
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have had a severe allergic reaction to gout medicines before

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Azathioprine and mercaptopurine (increases risk of serious side effects)
• Theophylline
• Other medicines for gout, unless specifically advised together by your doctor
• Any new prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medicine — always inform your doctor or pharmacist

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking it once my gout attack goes away?

No, this medicine is for long-term control of uric acid and should not be stopped without your doctor's advice.

Will it help during a sudden gout attack?

No, it does not relieve acute pain; your doctor may prescribe a separate medicine for the attack itself.

Can gout attacks increase when I first start this medicine?

• Yes, this can happen initially as uric acid levels change; your doctor may give additional medicine to prevent this.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.