Phenylbutazone
Phenylbutazone is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) historically used to treat pain and inflammation associated with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, and acute gout. Due to serious potential adverse effects including bone marrow suppression and blood disorders, its use is now largely restricted to short-term treatment when other therapies have failed.
An older NSAID for inflammatory and painful conditions, now rarely used due to significant safety concerns.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- M01AA01
- RxNorm
- 8160
- Generic
- Phenylbutazone
- Class
- atc-m01
- Brands
- Equizone, Equi-Phar, Vetribute, Pributazone
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, powder, capsule, solution
- 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 of pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, and acute gout. Currently reserved for short-term use when other NSAIDs are ineffective or contraindicated.
Inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing synthesis of prostaglandins that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever.
Carries risk of serious adverse effects including bone marrow suppression, agranulocytosis, liver toxicity, and gastrointestinal complications. Requires regular blood monitoring. Use is restricted to short-term, second-line therapy under close medical supervision.
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 August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy