Hiloric 40mg Tablet

Hiloric 40mg Tablet contains Febuxostat, a medication primarily used to treat chronic hyperuricemia (elevated levels of uric acid in the blood) in patients with gout, a form of arthritis characterized by severe pain, redness, and tenderness in joints. Febuxostat works by inhibiting xanthine oxidase, an enzyme responsible for the production of uric acid in the body. By lowering uric acid levels, it helps prevent gout attacks and other complications associated with high uric acid levels.

Uses of Hiloric 40mg Tablet

1. Gout Management: Hiloric 40mg Tablet is primarily prescribed to reduce uric acid levels in patients with gout, helping to prevent gout flares and maintain long-term control of the condition.
2. Hyperuricemia: This medication is also used in cases of chronic hyperuricemia, especially when it is associated with conditions such as Lesch-Nyhan syndrome or chemotherapy-induced hyperuricemia.
3. Kidney Stones Prevention: In some cases, Hiloric 40mg is used to prevent kidney stones that result from high uric acid levels in the urine.

Side Effects

Like any medication, Hiloric 40mg Tablet can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects include:

1. Liver Function Abnormalities: Elevated liver enzymes, which can indicate liver damage, may occur and should be monitored.
2. Gastrointestinal Issues: Patients may experience nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.
3. Skin Reactions: Rashes, itching, or severe skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome (though rare) can occur.
4. Cardiovascular Risks: There is a potential risk of heart-related events such as heart attacks or strokes, particularly in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
5. Gout Flares: Paradoxically, initial treatment with Febuxostat may cause gout flares due to rapid changes in uric acid levels.

Precautions

1. Liver Function Monitoring: Regular liver function tests are recommended as Febuxostat can cause liver enzyme elevations.
2. Cardiovascular Precautions: Patients with a history of cardiovascular disease should use Febuxostat cautiously, as it may increase the risk of heart-related events.
3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Hiloric 40mg is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless absolutely necessary.
4. Kidney Function: Dose adjustments may be necessary for patients with severe kidney impairment.
5. Drug Interactions: Febuxostat can interact with medications such as azathioprine, mercaptopurine, and theophylline, potentially leading to serious side effects.

When Not to Use Hiloric 40mg Tablet

1. Hypersensitivity: Avoid use if there is a known allergy to Febuxostat or any other component of the Hiloric tablet.
2. Severe Cardiovascular Disease: It should not be used in patients with severe cardiovascular conditions without close monitoring.
3. Concurrent Use with Certain Medications: Hiloric 40mg should not be used alongside medications like azathioprine or mercaptopurine due to the risk of severe toxicity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does it take for Hiloric 40mg to work?
   • It may take a few weeks for Hiloric 40mg to effectively lower uric acid levels. Your doctor will monitor your progress and adjust the dose if necessary.
2. Can I stop taking Hiloric 40mg once my uric acid levels are normal?
   • No, stopping the medication without consulting your doctor can lead to a recurrence of high uric acid levels and gout attacks.
3. Is Hiloric 40mg safe for long-term use?
   • Hiloric 40mg can be used long-term under medical supervision. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function is important.
4. Can I drink alcohol while taking Hiloric 40mg?
   • It’s advisable to limit alcohol consumption as it can increase uric acid levels and trigger gout attacks.
5. What should I do if I miss a dose?
   • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.