Anturane (Sulfinpyrazone) Drug Information: Warnings and Precautions

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May 24, 2012

Anturane

Gout »

What is gout? What is hyperuricemia?

Gout is a disease that results from an overload of uric acid in the body. This overload of uric acid leads to the formation of tiny crystals of urate that deposit in tissues of the body, especially the joints. When crystals form in the joints, it causes recurring attacks of joint inflammation (arthritis). Gout is considered a chronic and progressive disease. Chronic gout can also lead to deposits of hard lumps of uric acid in the tissues, particularly in and around the joints and may cause joint destruction, decreased kidney function, and kidney stones (nephrolithiasis).

Gout has the unique distinction of being one of the most frequently recorded medical illnesses throughout history. It is often related to an inherited abnormality in the body's ability to process uric acid. Uric acid is a breakdown product of purines that are part of many foods we eat. An abnormality in handling uric acid can cause attacks of p...

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Anturane

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Please Note: This Brand Name drug is no longer available in the US.
(Generic versions may still be available.)

WARNINGS

Studies on the teratogenicity of pyrazole compounds in animals have yielded inconclusive results. Up to the present time, however, there have been no reported cases of human congenital malformation proved to be due to the use of the drug.

It is suggested that Anturane (sulfinpyrazone) be used with caution in pregnant women, weighing the potential risks against the possible benefits.

PRECAUTIONS

As with all pyrazole compounds, patients receiving Anturane (sulfinpyrazone) should be kept under close medical supervision and periodic blood counts are recommended. It may be administered with care to patients with a history of healed peptic ulcer.

Recent reports have indicated that Anturane (sulfinpyrazone) potentiates the action of certain sulfonamides, such as sulfadiazine and sulfisoxazole. In addition, other pyrazole compounds (phenylbutazone) have been observed to potentiate the hypoglycemic sulfonylurea agents, as well as insulin. In view of these observations, it is suggested that Anturane (sulfinpyrazone) be used with caution in conjunction with sulfa drugs, the sulfonylurea hypoglycemic agents and insulin.

Because Anturane (sulfinpyrazone) is a potent uricosuric agent, it may precipitate urolithiasis and renal colic, especially in the initial stages of therapy. For this reason, an adequate fluid intake and alkalinization of the urine are recommended. In cases with significant renal impairment, periodic assessment of renal function is indicated. Occasional cases of renal failure have been reported; but a cause-and-effect relationship has not always been clearly established.

Salicylates antagonize the uricosuric action of Anturane (sulfinpyrazone) and for this reason their concomitant use is contraindicated in gouty arthritis.

Anturane (sulfinpyrazone) may accentuate the action of coumarin-type anticoagulants and further depress prothrombin activity when these medications are employed simultaneously.

Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

NOTE: Anturane (sulfinpyrazone) has minimal anti-inflammatory effect and is not intended for the relief of an acute attack of gout.

In the initial stages of therapy, because of the marked ability of Anturane (sulfinpyrazone) to mobilize urates, acute attacks of gouty arthritis may be precipitated.

Last reviewed on RxList: 12/8/2004
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.