Common Use

Benemid is a medication used to treat hyperuricemia (high uric acid levels) and reduce blood uric acid in patients with gout and gouty arthritis. It contains Probenecid and is sometimes prescribed alongside penicillin antibiotics to enhance their effectiveness. Probenecid works by preventing the reabsorption of uric acid and blocking the excretion of antibiotics by the kidneys.

Dosage and Direction

While taking Benemid, ensure you drink plenty of water to prevent kidney stones. For hyperuricemia, the standard dose is 500 mg taken twice daily, with a maximum recommended dose of 2 gm per day. When used with penicillin antibiotics, the typical dose is 500 mg four times a day.

Precautions

Inform your doctor if you have a history of medication allergies, kidney disease, kidney stones, or stomach ulcers. Benemid may be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes a special diet, mineral supplements, and other medications. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience worsening gout symptoms, uric acid kidney stones, anemia, low white blood cell count, blood in your urine, dark urine, fever, jaundice, or pale skin.

Contraindications

Benemid is not suitable for patients with an allergy to probenecid, uric acid kidney stones, an ongoing acute gout attack, low white blood cell count, or anemia. It is also not recommended for children under the age of two.

Side Effects

Potential side effects include allergic reactions such as hives, rash, difficulty breathing, and facial swelling. Other possible effects include worsening gout symptoms, bloody or dark urine, severe pain in the side or lower back, swelling of the stomach, ankles, or feet, pale skin, confusion, fever, and weakness.

Drug Interaction

Benemid can increase blood levels of NSAIDs like naproxen (Aleve), ketorolac (Toradol), ibuprofen (Advil), indomethacin (Indocin), and methotrexate (Trexall, Rheumatrex). Notify your doctor if you are taking lorazepam (Ativan), oral diabetes medications, salicylates like aspirin, or sulfa drugs such as Bactrim.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take double or extra doses. Continue with your regular dosing schedule the next day.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include stomach upset, nausea, and vomiting. Contact your doctor immediately if you suspect an overdose.

Storage

Store Benemid at room temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Keep it away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or in places accessible to children.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is general and does not cover all possible directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your health care provider or doctor for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We disclaim responsibility for the reliability of this information and any errors it may contain. We are not liable for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from the use of this information or the consequences of self-treatment.