Probenecid

1 medicine

Probenecid is a uricosuric medicine used to lower uric acid and prevent gout attacks and kidney stones; it blocks the kidneys from clearing certain other drugs, most seriously methotrexate, which can build up to toxic levels if the two are combined.

Benemid

Probenecid

500mg

Benemid is a painkillers medication containing Probenecid, available as 500mg tablets.

from $0.76 / tablet View

Key facts

  • Probenecid (brand name Benemid) is a uricosuric medicine: it blocks the kidneys from reabsorbing uric acid, so more leaves the body in the urine and blood levels fall.
  • It is used to prevent gout attacks in people with high uric acid, and to prevent uric-acid kidney stones. It is not used to treat a gout attack that is already happening.
  • Probenecid blocks the kidneys from clearing several other drugs, most seriously methotrexate: combining them can raise methotrexate to toxic, potentially fatal levels. Always tell every prescriber you take probenecid.
  • Seek urgent care for severe skin blistering, unusual bruising or fatigue, or facial or throat swelling.

What probenecid treats

Probenecid treats chronic high uric acid (hyperuricemia) to reduce the frequency of gout attacks, and it helps prevent uric-acid kidney stones from forming. Starting probenecid during an active gout flare can make the attack worse, so it is usually started once the flare has settled, often with an anti-inflammatory added for the first weeks of treatment while uric acid levels shift.

How probenecid works

In the kidneys, probenecid blocks the transport protein that normally reabsorbs uric acid back into the bloodstream, so more uric acid passes into the urine and out of the body. Lower blood uric acid means fewer crystals form in joints, which reduces the gout attacks those crystals cause.

Before you take it

  • Avoid probenecid during an acute gout attack; wait until the flare has resolved before starting it.
  • Tell your prescriber about methotrexate, penicillin-type antibiotics, and any other kidney-cleared medicines, since probenecid raises their blood levels.
  • People with severe kidney impairment or a history of kidney stones need individual assessment before starting.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout treatment to reduce the risk of new kidney stones forming as more uric acid passes through the urine.

Side effects

Common effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, mild rash, and needing to urinate more often.

Stop and seek urgent medical care for any of these:

  • Severe skin reaction such as blistering or peeling.
  • Unexplained bruising, unusual fatigue, or paleness (possible blood disorder).
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Signs of a kidney stone: severe flank pain or blood in the urine.

Safety essentials

  • Probenecid raises blood levels of other kidney-cleared drugs, most dangerously methotrexate: this combination can be fatal if not managed carefully by your prescriber.
  • Do not start probenecid during a gout flare; it can prolong or worsen the attack.
  • Drink enough water each day to keep urine flowing freely and lower the risk of kidney stones.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.