Uricosuric medications (drugs) are substances that increase the excretion of uric acid in the urine, thus reducing the concentration of uric acid in blood plasma. Generally, this effect is achieved by action on the proximal tubule.

Uricosurics often are used in the treatment of gout, a disease in which uric acid crystals deposit in joints. By decreasing plasma uric acid levels, uricosurics help to help to dissolve these crystals and limit the formation of new crystals. However, by increasing urinary uric acid levels these drugs may contribute to stones (calculi) in the kidneys and urinary system (see Uric acid nephrolithiasis). Thus use of these drugs is contraindicated in persons who already have a high urine concentration of uric acid (hyperuricosuria). In borderline cases, hydration sufficient to produce 2 liters of urine per day may be sufficient to permit use of an uricosuric drug. By their mechanism of action some uricosurics (eg Probenecid) increase the blood plasma concentration of certain other drugs and their metabolic products. Assessment of likely drug interactions is important, when using uricosuric drugs in the presence of other medications.

Primary uricosurics

Primarily uricosuric drugs include probenecid, benzbromarone and sulfinpyrazone.

Secondary uricosurics

Drugs with other primary uses, that have some uricosuric properties, include guaifenesin,¹ losartan,^{citation needed} and fenofibrate.

Antiuricosurics

Antiuricosuric drugs raise serum uric acid levels at the expense of urine uric acid levels. These drugs include all diuretics^{citation needed} and aspirin. These drugs are useful for treatment of hypouricemia and perhaps also hyperuricosuria but are contraindicated in persons with conditions including hyperuricemia and gout.

See also

• Uricosuria (disambiguation)

External links

• 604373033 at GPnotebook
• MeSH Uricosuric+agents

References

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