Febuxostat
Febuxostat is a xanthine oxidase inhibitor used to lower high levels of uric acid in the blood, helping to prevent gout attacks and treat chronic hyperuricemia. It works by blocking the enzyme responsible for producing uric acid, thereby reducing its formation. This medication is typically prescribed when other treatments like allopurinol are not suitable or have caused adverse effects.
Febuxostat reduces uric acid levels to prevent gout attacks and manage hyperuricemia.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- M04AA03
- RxNorm
- 73689
- Generic
- Febuxostat
- Class
- atc-m04
- Brands
- Uloric
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment and prevention of chronic hyperuricemia in conditions where urate deposition has already occurred or is anticipated, including gout. May be used as an alternative for patients who cannot tolerate or have contraindications to allopurinol.
Febuxostat selectively inhibits xanthine oxidase, the enzyme responsible for converting hypoxanthine and xanthine to uric acid. By blocking this pathway, serum uric acid levels are reduced, preventing urate crystal deposition in joints and tissues.
May initially trigger gout flares when starting therapy as uric acid levels drop. Liver function monitoring may be recommended. Contraindicated in patients receiving azathioprine, mercaptopurine, or theophylline. Not recommended in patients with ischemic heart disease or congestive heart failure until further data is available.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy