Xanthine oxidase inhibitor (uric acid lowering agent)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Febuxostat is a medicine that lowers the level of uric acid in your blood by blocking the enzyme that produces it, helping to prevent gout attacks and kidney problems caused by too much uric acid.
Inhibits xanthine oxidase, the enzyme responsible for converting hypoxanthine and xanthine to uric acid, thereby reducing serum uric acid levels and preventing gout attacks and uric acid-related complications.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
The usual starting dose is one 40 mg tablet once daily. If your uric acid level is still high after 2-4 weeks, your doctor may increase it to 80 mg once daily. You can take it with or without food, at the same time each day. Swallow the tablet whole with water.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two tablets at once to make up for it.
When you first start febuxostat, gout flare-ups may actually increase for a while — your doctor may give you another medicine alongside it to prevent this, so do not stop taking it on your own. Only buy from licensed pharmacies — avoid roadside sellers or unverified online stores as fake drugs are common. Do not share this medicine with others even if they also have gout, as dosing depends on individual test results.
Do not take febuxostat with azathioprine or mercaptopurine (drugs used for immune conditions or cancer) as it can cause dangerous toxicity. Be cautious if you are taking theophylline (used for asthma). Avoid excessive alcohol as it raises uric acid levels and works against the medicine.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Febuxostat with your other drugs?
Febuxostat is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding — consult your doctor before using it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing a baby.
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C — away from direct sunlight and humidity, which can be a problem in Nigerian weather. Keep the tablets in their original pack and far out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
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