Overview
Febuxostat is a xanthine oxidase inhibitor used for the chronic management of hyperuricemia in patients with gout. It works by reducing serum uric acid levels through inhibition of xanthine oxidase, the enzyme responsible for uric acid production.
Mechanism of Action
Febuxostat is a non-purine selective inhibitor of xanthine oxidase. It inhibits both the oxidized and reduced forms of xanthine oxidase, thereby decreasing the production of uric acid from hypoxanthine and xanthine.
Indications
- Chronic management of hyperuricemia in patients with gout
Dosage
Initial dose: 40 mg once daily. May increase to 80 mg once daily if serum uric acid is not below 6 mg/dL after 2 weeks. Maximum dose: 80 mg daily.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to febuxostat or any component of the formulation
- Patients being treated with azathioprine, mercaptopurine, or theophylline
Side Effects
- Liver function abnormalities
- Nausea
- Arthralgia
- Rash
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Edema
- Fatigue
- Increased blood creatine phosphokinase
Interactions
- Azathioprine: Increased toxicity risk
- Mercaptopurine: Increased toxicity risk
- Theophylline: Increased theophylline concentrations
- NSAIDs: May increase risk of gout flare when used concurrently