Febuxostat is a non-purine, selective xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitor. It decreases serum uric acid level by inhibiting xanthine oxidase, which is responsible for uric acid production. Xanthine oxidase breaks down hypoxanthine to xanthine and thus to uric acid. Febuxostat is not expected to inhibit other enzymes involved in purine and pyrimidine synthesis and metabolism at therapeutic concentrations.
Febuxostat is contraindicated in patients being treated with azathioprine, mercaptopurine, or theophylline.
The most common adverse events associated with the use of Febuxostat may include liver function abnormalities, nausea, arthralgia, and rash.
Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Febuxostat should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when Febuxostat is administered to a nursing woman.
Gout Flare: An increase in gout flares is frequently observed during initiation of anti-hyperuricemic agents, including Febuxostat. If a gout flare occurs during treatment, Febuxostat need not be discontinued. Prophylactic therapy (i.e., non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) or colchicine upon initiation of treatment) may be beneficial for up to six months.
Cardiovascular Events: A higher rate of cardiovascular thromboembolic events was observed in patients treated with febuxostat than allopurinol in clinical trials. Monitor for signs and symptoms of MI and stroke.
Liver Enzyme Elevation: Transaminase elevations have been observed in febuxostat -treated patients. Monitor liver function tests periodically.
Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under 18 years of age have not been established
Febustat was studied in healthy subjects in doses up to 300 mg daily for seven days without evidence of dose-limiting toxicities.
