Febumac 80 Tablet (10 Tab)

FEBUMAC 80 TABLET

FEBUMAC 80 TABLET, manufactured by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is a medication prescribed for the management of gout.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: FEBUMAC 80 TABLET
  • Common Name: Febuxostat

• Composition:

  • The active ingredient is Febuxostat 80 mg.

• Uses:

  • FEBUMAC 80 TABLET is primarily used for the chronic management of high uric acid levels (hyperuricemia) in adults with gout. It is particularly suitable for patients who have not responded well to allopurinol, are intolerant to it, or for whom allopurinol is medically inadvisable. By inhibiting xanthine oxidase, it reduces uric acid production, thereby preventing the formation of uric acid crystals in joints and reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with gout attacks. It also helps in preventing severe gout attacks or flares.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • FEBUMAC 80 TABLET is typically taken once daily, with or without food, as directed by a doctor. It should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or broken. For optimal effectiveness, it is advised to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent medication levels in the body.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Nausea, rash, dizziness, diarrhea, headache, joint pain, abnormal liver function test results, and localized swelling (oedema). Some patients may experience an increase in gout flare-ups during the initial months of treatment as uric acid crystals begin to dissolve.
  • Serious Side Effects: Serious cardiac events (like heart attack or stroke), severe skin and allergic reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome), and liver problems.

• Precautions:

  • Patients with a history of heart problems, kidney or liver disease, or thyroid problems should use this medication with caution. It is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before use. Alcohol consumption should be limited or avoided as it may cause gout to flare up or increase the risk of liver function abnormalities. Patients should not stop taking the medicine without consulting their doctor, even if symptoms improve, as it may worsen the condition.

• Storage:

  • Store FEBUMAC 80 TABLET in a cool and dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep it out of sight and reach of children. It should be stored at 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.

What is FEBUMAC 80 TABLET used for?

FEBUMAC 80 TABLET is primarily used to treat and prevent gout in adults. Gout is a type of arthritis caused by excessively high levels of uric acid in the body, leading to the formation of crystals in and around joints, which results in sudden and severe pain, swelling, redness, and heat. This medicine helps keep uric acid levels low to prevent gout attacks and long-term joint damage. It is often prescribed for patients who have not responded well to or cannot take other gout medications like allopurinol.

How does FEBUMAC 80 TABLET work?

FEBUMAC 80 TABLET contains Febuxostat, which belongs to a class of medications called xanthine oxidase inhibitors. It works by blocking the enzyme xanthine oxidase, which is responsible for converting purines into uric acid in the body. By inhibiting this enzyme, Febuxostat reduces the production of uric acid, thereby lowering its levels in the blood and preventing the formation and buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints and kidneys.

What is the usual dosage of FEBUMAC 80 TABLET?

The usual starting dose for adults with gout is 40 mg once daily, which can be increased to 80 mg once daily if the target serum uric acid level (below 6 mg/dL or 0.36 mmol/L) is not achieved after two weeks. FEBUMAC 80 TABLET is typically taken once a day, with or without food. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the dose and duration of treatment.

What are the possible side effects of FEBUMAC 80 TABLET?

Common side effects include liver function abnormalities, nausea, joint pain, headache, and skin rashes. You may also experience an increase in gout attacks during the first few months of treatment as the uric acid crystals begin to dissolve; however, you should continue taking the medication as prescribed, and your doctor may provide other medications like NSAIDs or colchicine to help manage these attacks.

Serious side effects, though rare, can include severe allergic reactions (such as skin rash, hives, blistering, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing), serious heart and blood vessel problems (like chest pain, heart attack, stroke, or sudden severe headache), and liver problems (yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, upper stomach pain). If you experience any severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Is FEBUMAC 80 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Febuxostat is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Limited research is available on its use in pregnant women, and it is not known if it passes into breast milk. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.

Can FEBUMAC 80 TABLET be taken with other medications?

It's crucial to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as some drugs can interact with Febuxostat. For example, Febuxostat should not be taken with azathioprine or mercaptopurine due to a potentially fatal interaction that can lead to severe toxicity and bone marrow suppression. Caution is also advised with theophylline, as Febuxostat can increase its levels. Your doctor may need to adjust doses or monitor you more closely if other medications are taken concurrently.

What precautions should be taken?

Before starting FEBUMAC 80 TABLET, inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have heart disease, a history of heart attack or stroke, liver or kidney disease, cancer, or Lesch-Nyhan syndrome. Regular blood tests to check liver function and uric acid levels are typically recommended during treatment. You should continue taking FEBUMAC 80 TABLET every day, even if you experience gout attacks, as stopping it can worsen your symptoms.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of FEBUMAC 80 TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

How should FEBUMAC 80 TABLET be stored?

FEBUMAC 80 TABLET should be stored in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep it away from freezing. Make sure it is stored in a secure location and disposed of safely if there is any leftover portion.