Sodium Phenylbutyrate
Pheburane is a brand-name medication containing sodium phenylbutyrate, used to help manage urea cycle disorders in patients whose bodies cannot properly eliminate ammonia. It provides an alternative pathway for nitrogen excretion, helping to reduce dangerously high ammonia levels in the blood. This medication is typically used in conjunction with dietary protein restriction and nutritional supplementation.
Pheburane is a treatment for urea cycle disorders that helps the body eliminate excess nitrogen and control dangerous ammonia levels.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 2610129
- Generic
- Pheburane
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Pheburane is indicated for the chronic management of urea cycle disorders, including carbamoyl phosphate synthetase I deficiency, ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency, and citrullinemia, among others. It is used when dietary protein restriction alone is insufficient to control ammonia levels.
Pheburane contains sodium phenylbutyrate, which acts as a nitrogen scavenger. It provides an alternative pathway for nitrogen disposal by conjugating with glutamine to form phenylacetylglutamine, which is then excreted in the urine, thereby helping to reduce elevated ammonia levels in the blood.
Pheburane should be used under the supervision of a physician experienced in metabolic disorders. It is contraindicated in patients with acute hyperammonemia requiring acute management. Common side effects may include gastrointestinal symptoms. Pregnancy and breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare provider before use.
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