Benemid
Generic name:probenecid [ proe-BEN-a-sid ]
Drug class:Antigout agents
The Benemid brand name has been discontinued in the U.S. If generic versions of this product have been approved by the FDA, there may be generic equivalents available.
What is Benemid?
Benemid is used to treat gout and gouty arthritis. Benemid reduces the amount of uric acid in your body by causing it to be passed in your urine.
Benemid is also sometimes given together with penicillin antibiotics (including ampicillin, methicillin, oxacillin, cloxacillin, or nafcillin) to make them more effective.
Benemid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use this medicine if you have uric acid kidney stones, a gout attack that has already started, or a blood cell disorder.
Call your doctor if you have worsening gout symptoms.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Benemid if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
uric acid kidney stones;
a gout attack that has already started; or
a blood cell disorder, such as anemia or low white blood cells.
Benemid should not be given to a child younger than 2 years old.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
kidney disease;
a stomach ulcer; or
kidney stones.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
How should I take Benemid?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Drink plenty of water to prevent kidney stones while you are taking Benemid.
You may be given other medications to also help prevent kidney stones. Keep using these medicines for as long as your doctor has prescribed.
If you need surgery, tell your surgeon you currently take Benemid. Benemid may affect your body's response to anesthesia.
Call your doctor if your gout symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse. Your doctor may prescribe an additional medicine called colchicine.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
