Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: PROBENECID - ORAL (pro-BEN-uh-sid)
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Probenecid is used to prevent gout and gouty arthritis. It is not meant to be used for acute attacks of gout. Probenecid is also used along with penicillin antibiotics to increase antibiotic blood levels. This increase makes the antibiotic more effective in treating certain infections. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.
HOW TO USE: This is best taken with food or milk to prevent an upset stomach. It is advisable to drink a full glass of water with each dose and to drink at least 8 glasses (8 ounces each) of water a day while taking this medicine to prevent the formation of kidney stones. Large doses of vitamin C should be avoided while taking this medicine as it can increase the risk of kidney stone formation.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, loss of appetite, drowsiness, vomiting, headache, sore gums or frequent urination may occur as your body adjusts to the medicine. If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: yellowing of the eyes or skin, sore throat, easy bruising or bleeding, lower back pain, difficulty urinating. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction: include rash, itching, swelling dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history especially of: blood problems, kidney disease, cancer treatment, stomach ulcers, any allergies. Probenecid may cause drowsiness especially during the first few days. Use caution engaging in activities that require alertness such as driving or using machinery. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication because it may worsen your condition. Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Though there have been no reports of problems to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- amoxicillin, Amoxil, Dispermox, Trimox - Learn more about amoxicillin, including a description, generic and brand names, drug class and mechanism, preparations, storage, reasons for prescription, dosing, effect on pregnancy and nursing mothers, and common side effects.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Women (STDs) - Learn and become aware of common STDs in women, including descriptions, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments of each type of infection.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Interactive Slideshows