Febuxostat

Febuxostat

Febuxostat is a non-purine selective inhibitor of xanthine oxidase that is used in the treatment of hyperuricemia and its complications, including chronic gout. It was developed by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company and was approved for use in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2009.

Mechanism of Action

Febuxostat works by inhibiting the enzyme xanthine oxidase, which is involved in the production of uric acid in the body. By blocking this enzyme, febuxostat reduces the amount of uric acid produced, thereby preventing the formation of uric acid crystals that can cause gout.

Clinical Use

Febuxostat is used primarily in the treatment of chronic gout and hyperuricemia. It is particularly useful in patients who are intolerant to allopurinol, or in whom allopurinol is contraindicated. Febuxostat is also used in the management of tumor lysis syndrome, a condition that can occur in patients with certain types of cancer.

Side Effects

Common side effects of febuxostat include liver function abnormalities, nausea, joint pain, and rash. In rare cases, febuxostat can cause serious side effects, including severe skin reactions and an increased risk of heart-related death.

Contraindications

Febuxostat is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to febuxostat or any of its components. It is also contraindicated in patients being treated with azathioprine or mercaptopurine, as the concomitant use of these drugs with febuxostat can lead to serious or even fatal drug interactions.

See Also

• Gout
• Hyperuricemia
• Xanthine oxidase
• Allopurinol
• Takeda Pharmaceutical Company