What Are the Long-Term Side Effects of Taking Benzbromarone?

Benzbromarone: Usage, Side Effects, and Precautions for Gout Treatment

Benzbromarone as a Common Treatment for Gout

Benzbromarone is a commonly used drug for treating gout. It can be prescribed during remission or chronic stages of gout to control hyperuricemia and maintain blood uric acid levels within the normal range. Additionally, it can help prevent certain complications arising from gout. However, long-term use of benzbromarone is not recommended due to potential side effects.

Side Effects of Long-Term Benzbromarone Use

Benzbromarone is a highly effective drug for gout treatment, primarily due to its ability to promote uric acid excretion. However, long-term use of benzbromarone can lead to various side effects, the most common being abnormalities in liver and kidney function. Additionally, increased uric acid excretion in the kidneys can lead to complications such as urinary stones. Therefore, benzbromarone is not recommended for long-term use. Alternative drugs such as febuxostat can be considered, which work by inhibiting uric acid production rather than promoting its excretion, offering better efficacy and fewer side effects.

Effectiveness of Benzbromarone in Gout Treatment

During remission or chronic stages of gout, patients can take benzbromarone to treat hyperuricemia, aiming to maintain blood uric acid levels within the normal range and actively prevent complications. Benzbromarone is effective in promoting uric acid excretion, primarily by inhibiting the reabsorption of urate in the proximal renal tubules. It is suitable for patients with good renal function and usually causes mild adverse reactions, although there is a risk of liver function damage. Rarely, it may cause kidney damage, gastrointestinal reactions, or allergic reactions. It is essential to follow the advice of a healthcare professional when using benzbromarone.

Precautions for Benzbromarone Usage

When taking benzbromarone, there are several precautions to be aware of. Common adverse reactions include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, gastric bloating, and diarrhea. Rarely, urticaria may occur. If any significant discomfort arises, it is essential to promptly consult a doctor for appropriate management. Additionally, benzbromarone should not be used during acute gout attacks as it can lower uric acid levels.