About Febuxostat
Medically reviewed by Dr Khizer Hussain Junaidy, MD Pharmacology, Diabetologist & Bariatric Physician, on 23 Oct 2026.
What it is for
Lowers uric acid to prevent gout attacks.
How to take it
Take it once a day, with or without food. Gout attacks may increase in the first months; the doctor may give a second medicine to prevent them.
Common side effects
- Gout flares in the first months.
- Raised liver tests.
Call your doctor if
- Chest pain, breathlessness or weakness on one side of the body.
- Rash.
Take care
Tell the doctor about heart disease or stroke before starting. Do not take it with azathioprine or mercaptopurine; the combination can be dangerous.
From our clinic: Drink enough water. Limit red meat, organ meat, beer and sweet drinks.