Indications 

Benuryl is a prescribed medication for managing hyperuricemia, a condition characterized by elevated uric acid levels in the bloodstream, commonly associated with gout and gouty arthritis. 

In addition, Benuryl can be prescribed alongside penicillin antibiotics (ampicillin, methicillin, oxacillin, cloxacillin, or nafcillin) to enhance their efficacy. 

As a uricosuric and renal tubular blocking agent, Benuryl works to help the body get rid of excess uric acid through urine and makes penicillin more effective by increasing its levels in the bloodstream, regardless of the route of administration. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Benuryl and with every prescription refill, thoroughly examine the accompanying medication guide and patient information leaflet. Should you have any queries or concerns, seek guidance from your healthcare provider or pharmacist. 

The prescribed amount of Benuryl varies depending on individual medical conditions and response to the treatment. 

Your doctor may initially recommend a lower dose of this medication and subsequently adjust it according to your uric acid levels and the severity of your gout symptoms. 

Typically, Benuryl is taken twice daily for chronic gout or gouty arthritis and four times daily when combined with antibiotics to enhance their efficacy. 

Take each dose with a full glass of water and consume at least eight additional glasses daily while taking this medication to prevent kidney stones.  

If your fluid intake is restricted, consult your doctor for guidance. Your healthcare provider may also advise you on reducing urine acidity, like limiting high ascorbic acid/vitamin C intake, and prescribe other medications, such as sodium bicarbonate or citrate, to make your urine less acidic. 

For best results, take Benuryl at around the same times daily, exactly how it is prescribed. 

This medication may initially lead to more frequent gout attacks within the first 6 to 12 months of usage, but it will eventually provide prevention. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens beyond this period. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Benuryl. Tell your doctor promptly should any of these symptoms persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Headache, dizziness 
• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite 
• Flushing (sudden warmth, redness, or tingling sensation) 
• Sore gums 
• Increased urination 
• Itching and rash 
• Hair loss 

Serious Side Effects 

• Deterioration of gout symptoms 
• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or swelling 
• Painful or difficult urination 
• Intense pain in the side or lower back 
• Presence of blood in urine 
• Cloudy or foamy urine 
• Swelling around the eyes, ankles, or feet, accompanied by weight gain 
• Pale or yellowed skin 

Contact your doctor right away if you exhibit any of the serious side effects listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare cases, Benuryl may trigger a severe allergic response. Seek immediate medical aid if any signs of an allergic reaction manifest, such as: 

• Rash 
• Face, tongue, or throat itching or swelling 
• Difficulty breathing 

This list does not cover all side effects of Benuryl. Report to your doctor if other side effects occur while taking this medication. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Benuryl, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to probenecid or any of its inactive ingredients. 

To ensure Benuryl is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Low blood counts (e.g., aplastic anemia, bone marrow depression) 
• Cancer treatment 
• Enzyme deficiency (G6PD) 
• Kidney problems (e.g., kidney stones, obstruction) 
• Peptic ulcer disease 

To minimize the potential of drug interactions with Benuryl, disclose your complete medication regimen, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products, to all healthcare providers involved in your treatment. 

Some of the medications that may interact with Benuryl include: 

• Cancer chemotherapy 
• Baricitinib 
• Dyphylline 
• Ketorolac 
• Methotrexate 
• Pyrazinamide 
• High-dose aspirin (salicylates) 
• Zidovudine 
• Drugs eliminated by the kidneys (e.g., ceftazidime/avibactam, dapsone, heparin, fosfomycin) 

The use of Benuryl may affect the accuracy of particular lab tests (urine glucose test), potentially resulting in misleading outcomes. Inform laboratory personnel and all medical practitioners about your utilization of this drug. 

Benuryl should only be taken cautiously during pregnancy after thoroughly discussing potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. 

Seek guidance from your healthcare provider before nursing your baby when taking Benuryl, as the transfer of probenecid into breast milk is not well understood.