Febutaz 20 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET

FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET, manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD., is a medication primarily used for the management and prevention of gout.

Composition

The active ingredient in FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET is Febuxostat, at a strength of 20 mg. Febuxostat belongs to a class of drugs known as xanthine oxidase inhibitors.

Uses

FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET is prescribed for:

• Treatment and prevention of gout in adults: Gout is a type of arthritis caused by an excessive buildup of uric acid in the body, leading to the formation of crystals in and around joints, causing sudden and severe pain, redness, warmth, and swelling. It works by decreasing uric acid levels in the blood, thereby preventing crystal formation and reducing inflammation.
• Patients unresponsive to or intolerant of allopurinol: It is mainly used in individuals who have not responded well to allopurinol treatment or cannot take allopurinol.
• Lowering high uric acid levels during cancer treatment: It may also be used to prevent and treat high blood levels of uric acid that can occur when chemotherapy begins for certain blood cancers, a condition known as tumor lysis syndrome.

Dosage and Administration

FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET should be taken orally once daily, with or without food, as directed by a doctor. It is recommended to take it at the same time each day to help maintain consistent levels in the body. It is important to continue taking the medicine as prescribed, even during periods without gout attacks, as stopping it prematurely can worsen symptoms. The exact dosage and duration will be determined by the physician based on the patient's medical condition and response to treatment.

Side Effects

Common side effects of FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET may include:

• Abnormal liver test results
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Rash
• Nausea
• Gout flares (initial increase in gout symptoms when starting treatment)
• Localized swelling due to fluid retention (edema)
• Joint pain

Serious side effects, though less common, can include:

• Heart problems (e.g., chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, irregular heartbeat)
• Liver problems (e.g., fatigue, pain on the right side of the abdomen, dark urine, yellowing of skin or eyes)
• Severe skin and allergic reactions

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET if you are allergic to febuxostat or any of its components.
• Heart Conditions: Exercise caution if you have pre-existing heart problems, as this medicine may increase the risk of heart attack or other cardiovascular issues. Inform your doctor about any history of heart failure or stroke.
• Kidney and Liver Conditions: Use with caution in patients with severe kidney or liver disease. Regular blood tests to monitor liver function may be advised.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET may be unsafe during pregnancy and is probably unsafe during breastfeeding. Consult a doctor before use if pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.
• Alcohol: Caution is advised when consuming alcohol, as it may cause gout to flare up.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness, which could affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all current medications, especially immunosuppressants like azathioprine and mercaptopurine, or asthma medications like theophylline, as FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET can increase their levels and cause serious effects.
• Lactose Intolerance: This tablet contains lactose, so individuals with lactose intolerance should consult their doctor.
• Children: FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET is not recommended for children under 18 years of age due to a lack of established safety and effectiveness.

Storage

Store FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET below 30°C, in its original packaging, and away from direct sunlight. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET is a medication primarily used for the management of gout and conditions involving high uric acid levels in the blood, also known as hyperuricemia. It works by reducing the production of uric acid, thereby preventing the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints that cause painful gout attacks.

Here are some frequently asked questions about FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET:

What is FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET used for?

FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET is used to treat gout in adults, particularly in patients who have not responded well to or cannot take other medications like allopurinol. It helps manage chronic hyperuricemia by lowering uric acid levels in the blood, which prevents gout attacks and reduces associated joint pain, swelling, and inflammation. It may also be used to lower uric acid levels in patients undergoing chemotherapy for blood cancers.

How does FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET work?

FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET contains febuxostat, which is a xanthine oxidase inhibitor. It works by blocking the enzyme xanthine oxidase, an enzyme in the body responsible for converting purines into uric acid. By inhibiting this enzyme, febuxostat reduces the production of uric acid, thereby lowering its levels in the blood and preventing the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints.

What is the usual dosage of FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET?

The usual dosage of FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET is once daily, taken with or without food, as prescribed by your doctor. It is important to take it at the same time each day to help you remember. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose and duration of treatment based on your medical condition and response. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

What are the possible side effects of FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET?

Common side effects of FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET can include headache, skin rashes, diarrhea, nausea, and abnormal liver function test results. Some individuals may experience an initial increase in gout flares (sudden, intense joint pain and swelling) when starting the medication due to changes in uric acid levels; however, it's important not to discontinue the medicine without consulting your doctor. Serious side effects can include heart problems and severe allergic reactions. Consult your doctor if any side effects persist or worsen.

Is FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may be unsafe and could cause fetal harm. Limited data is available on its effects during breastfeeding, and it is generally advised not to breastfeed while taking this medicine as it may pass into breast milk. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Can FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET can interact with certain other medications. For instance, it may increase the levels and toxicity of immunosuppressants like azathioprine and mercaptopurine, and asthma medications like theophylline. Always inform your doctor about all the medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, you are currently taking to avoid any potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken with FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET?

Inform your doctor if you have heart, liver, or kidney problems, or thyroid disorders, as FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET should be used with caution in these conditions. You may experience dizziness or drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you. Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can worsen your condition.

What happens if a dose of FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of FEBUTAZ 20 MG 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 missed one.

How should FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET be stored?

FEBUTAZ 20 MG TABLET should be stored at room temperature, protected from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.