As a first-line urate-lowering drug, how can febuxostat maximize its effectiveness? Here are five simple but crucial takeaways.
1. Standardize the use of medications
Uric acid lowering methods can be tried starting with a small dose, as recommended by the guidelines. The initial dose is 20 mg per day for two to four weeks. If uric acid levels do not decrease, an increase to 40 mg per day may be considered. ButThe maximum dose should not exceed 80 mg per day, and it is best not to overdoseto avoid breast pain.
2. Regular testing
Uric acid testing is done regularly to ensure the efficacy of febuxostat. Adjust the dosage and timing according to your doctor's advice to achieve optimal uric acid control.
In addition to this, liver function tests should be done regularlyIf aminotransferases are elevated more than three times more than normal, the drug should be discontinued。In addition,Patients with cardiovascular disease or at risk should inform their doctor in advance before taking the drugto avoid other dangers.
3. Dietary adjustments
Follow your doctor's dietary advice to reduce your intake of high-purine foods, such as red meat, internal organs, yeast products, etc. Choosing vegetables and fruits that are rich in fiber and vitamin C can help lower uric acid levels.
4. Drink plenty of water
Drinking enough water every day helps promote urine production and the excretion of uric acid. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, coffee, and carbonated beverages
5. Avoid triggers
Avoid triggers such as excessive fatigue, nervousness, and irregular diet, which may increase uric acid levels. Proper rest and good lifestyle habits can help improve the efficacy of febuxostat.
The final point that Dr. Hsu reminds everyone is that febuxostat is a drug that inhibits uric acid production, but it is not suitable for patients with abnormal uric acid excretion.
Therefore, patients suffering from gout and high uric acid must go to the relevant specialized hospital to understand the cause of high uric acid, and use the corresponding drugs according to the conditionDo not self-medicate。Moreover, it is not recommended to take urate-lowering drugs during gout attacks, so as not to aggravate the development of the condition.