$Unique_ID{BRK02141}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{SULFINPYRAZONE}
$Subject{Anturane (Ciba)
sulfinpyrazone (various manufacturers)}
$Volume{}
$Log{}

Copyright (C) 1991 Publications International, Ltd.


SULFINPYRAZONE
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BRAND NAMES (Manufacturers):
     Anturane (Ciba)
     sulfinpyrazone (various manufacturers)
TYPE OF DRUG:
     Antigout and antiplatelet
INGREDIENT:
     sulfinpyrazone
DOSAGE FORMS:
     Tablets (100 mg)
     Capsules (200 mg)
STORAGE:
     Sulfinpyrazone tablets and capsules should be stored at room temperature
       in tightly closed containers.

USES

     Sulfinpyrazone is used to treat gout.  It acts by increasing the
elimination of uric acid (the chemical responsible for gout) through the
kidneys.  It is also used to prevent further heart attacks in patients who
have had a recent attack.  It prevents the formation of certain types of blood
clots.

TREATMENT

     In order to prevent stomach irritation, you should take sulfinpyrazone
with food, milk, or antacids (unless your doctor directs you to do otherwise).
     Sulfinpyrazone does not cure gout, but it will help to control blood uric
acid levels as long as you continue to take the medication.
     If you miss a dose of this medication, take the missed dose as soon as
possible, unless it is almost time for your next dose.  In that case, do not
take the missed dose at all; just return to your regular dosing schedule.  Do
not double the next dose.

SIDE EFFECTS

     Minor.

     Diarrhea, nausea, stomach upset, or vomiting.  These side effects should
disappear as your body adjusts to the medication.

     Major.

     Tell your doctor about any side effects that are persistent or
particularly bothersome.  IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about
back pain; bloody or black, tarry stools; convulsions; difficult or painful
urination; fever; sore throat; skin rash; or unusual bleeding or bruising.

INTERACTIONS

     Sulfinpyrazone interacts with other types of medications:
     1. Aspirin can increase uric acid levels, thereby decreasing the
therapeutic effects of sulfinpyrazone.
     2. Sulfinpyrazone can increase the side effects of sulfonamide
antibiotics, oral antidiabetic medications, oral anticoagulants (blood
thinners, such as warfarin), and nitrofurantoin.
     3. Alcohol, pyrazinamide, and diuretics (water pills) can increase the
blood levels of uric acid, thereby decreasing the effectiveness of
sulfinpyrazone.
     Before starting to take this medication, BE SURE TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR
about any medications you are currently taking, especially any of those listed
above.

WARNINGS

     * Tell your doctor about unusual or allergic reactions you have had to
any medications, especially to sulfinpyrazone, dipyrone, oxyphenbutazone, or
phenylbutazone.
     * Before starting to take this medication, be sure to tell your doctor if
you have ever had blood disorders, kidney disease, peptic ulcers, or stomach
or intestinal inflammation.
     * Before taking any over-the-counter (nonprescription) medication, check
the label to see if it contains aspirin.  Aspirin can decrease the
effectiveness of sulfinpyrazone.
     * Sulfinpyrazone is not an analgesic (pain reliever) and does not relieve
an acute gout attack.  It is used to prevent future gout attacks.  In order to
prevent the formation of kidney stones, try to drink at least eight to 12
glasses of water or fruit juice each day while taking this medication (unless
your doctor directs you to do otherwise).
     * Before having surgery or other medical or dental treatment, tell your
doctor or dentist you are taking this drug.  Treatment with sulfinpyrazone is
usually discontinued several days prior to surgery, to prevent bleeding
complications.
     * Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant.  Although this
medication appears to be safe during pregnancy, extensive studies in humans
have not been conducted.  Also, tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding an
infant.  It is not known whether sulfinpyrazone passes into breast milk.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
