Uloric (Febuxostat)

Do’s

• Before starting Uloric, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist and consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions.
• Take Uloric by mouth with or without food as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
• It may take several months before Uloric begins to prevent gout attacks. During this time, you may have more gout attacks as the body removes extra uric acid. Uloric is not a pain reliever. Your healthcare provider may prescribe medication such as colchicine or NSAIDs to prevent/treat a gout attack during the first several months of treatment. Continue taking Uloric even if gout attacks occur during the early treatment.
• Regular use of Uloric is essential to derive the most benefit from the medication. Take it at the same time each day.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition lasts or gets worse.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Rash
• Joint pain
• Gout flares
• Liver problems
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Skin rashes
• Feeling sick (nausea)
• Abnormal liver test results
• Build-up of fluid, usually in the lower legs and ankles 

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe headache
• Confusion
• Slurred speech
• Arm or leg weakness
• Trouble walking
• Loss of coordination
• Feeling unsteady
• Very stiff muscles
• High fever
• Profuse sweating
• Tremors

Consult a healthcare provider for additional information about the potential side effects of Uloric and report any side effects experienced while taking this medication.

Uloric has been associated with a higher rate of cardiovascular (CV) death compared to allopurinol, particularly in gout patients with established CV disease. Patients should be informed of the increased risk of CV death and be alert for signs and symptoms of CV events. Prompt medical care should be sought if such symptoms occur.

After initiation of Uloric, an increase in gout flares can occur. Patients should be instructed that this is not a reason to stop taking the medication. Initiate and continue gout prophylaxis therapy for six months while taking Uloric.

Uloric has been associated with hepatic effects, including fatal ones. Patients should be informed about the potential hepatic effects, and healthcare providers should be consulted if any symptoms of liver damage, such as abdominal pain, loss of appetite, or fatigue, occur.

Uloric may increase the risk of serious or fatal heart problems. Patients should seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as chest pain, trouble breathing, fast heartbeats, sudden severe headache, numbness or weakness on one side of the body, or problems with vision or speech. Inform the healthcare provider about any history of kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, or if an organ transplant has been received.

Consult a healthcare provider for additional information about the warnings and precautions associated with Uloric and to discuss any concerns or questions about the medication.