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Lesinurad Medication: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects Explained
Summary of Key Points
Lesinurad is a medication used to lower uric acid levels in adults with gout and hyperuricemia. It works by helping the kidneys remove excess uric acid from the body. Lesinurad is often prescribed alongside other uric acid-lowering medications, such as allopurinol, to improve treatment outcomes. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for personalized care.
Names of Medication
US Brand Name: Zurampic (Lesinurad)
The generic name refers to the chemical name of the active ingredient in a medication. In this case, the generic name is listed in parentheses.
Pharmacologic Category
Uric Acid Transporter 1 (URAT1) Inhibitors
Renal Uric Acid Reabsorption Inhibitors
Lesinurad Dosage
Lesinurad is used to treat conditions related to elevated uric acid levels. Below are the recommended doses for adults. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them before making any changes to your dose. You can also connect with one of our providers through telemedicine for guidance.
Lesinurad for Gout and Hyperuricemia
Recommended Dose: 200 mg once daily, taken in the morning with food and water.
Duration: Long-term treatment, typically used in combination with a xanthine oxidase inhibitor (e.g., allopurinol).
Lesinurad and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Recommended Dose: Not recommended for patients with severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease.
Duration: Consult your healthcare provider for specific guidance based on kidney function.
Lesinurad for Renal Impairment
Recommended Dose: 200 mg once daily, but only for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment.
Duration: Treatment duration depends on your kidney function and response to therapy.
Lesinurad and Comorbid Conditions (Metabolic Syndrome, Hypertension, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Osteoarthritis, Kidney Stones)
Recommended Dose: Lesinurad is not specifically indicated for these conditions, but it may be used in patients with these comorbidities if they also have gout or elevated uric acid levels. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Tablet: 200 mg
Administration Instructions for Lesinurad
Lesinurad should be taken once daily in the morning with food and a full glass of water. Staying well-hydrated is important to support kidney function while on this medication. Lesinurad is typically prescribed alongside another uric acid-lowering medication, such as allopurinol. Do not exceed the recommended dose, and consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. If you have questions, consider scheduling a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for further guidance.
Lesinurad Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
Like all medications, Lesinurad may cause side effects. Below are some potential adverse reactions, categorized by frequency.
Common Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people)
Headache: Mild to moderate headaches may occur, especially when starting the medication.
Increased Blood Creatinine Levels: This indicates changes in kidney function, which should be monitored by your healthcare provider.
Uncommon Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people)
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Some patients report heartburn or acid reflux.
Flu-like Symptoms: These may include fever, chills, and body aches.
Rare Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people)
Kidney Stones: In rare cases, Lesinurad may contribute to the formation of kidney stones.
Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if these occur.
If you experience any side effects, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. You can also schedule a telemedicine consultation with one of our providers to discuss your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
Contraindications for Lesinurad
A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a medication should not be used because it may cause harm. If you have any of the following conditions, taking Lesinurad may not be safe. Always discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication.
Severe Renal Impairment or End-Stage Renal Disease: Lesinurad is processed by the kidneys, and if your kidneys are not functioning properly, the medication may not be cleared effectively, leading to toxic levels in your bloodstream.
Kidney Transplant: Patients who have undergone a kidney transplant should avoid Lesinurad because it may interfere with the function of the transplanted kidney.
Dialysis: If you are on dialysis, Lesinurad is contraindicated because your kidneys cannot filter the drug properly, increasing the risk of serious side effects.
Hypersensitivity to Lesinurad: If you have had an allergic reaction to Lesinurad or any of its components, you should not take this medication. Allergic reactions can range from mild rashes to severe, life-threatening conditions like anaphylaxis.
Lesinurad Drug Interactions
Lesinurad can interact with other medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some drugs that may interact with Lesinurad include:
- Aspirin (Aspirin, Bayer): High doses of aspirin can reduce the effectiveness of Lesinurad in lowering uric acid levels.
- Valproic Acid (Depakote): This medication, used to treat seizures and bipolar disorder, may interact with Lesinurad and increase the risk of kidney problems.
- Hormonal Contraceptives (e.g., Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Yaz): Lesinurad may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, so additional forms of birth control may be necessary.
- Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune): This immunosuppressant drug can increase the risk of kidney damage when taken with Lesinurad.
Lesinurad in Pregnancy
Is it safe to take Lesinurad during pregnancy?
There is limited information available on the use of Lesinurad in pregnant women. Animal studies have indicated some potential risk to the fetus, but no well-controlled studies have been conducted in humans. As a result, Lesinurad should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits clearly outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is important to consult your healthcare provider to determine whether Lesinurad is a suitable option for you.
Lesinurad while Breastfeeding
Is it safe to take Lesinurad while breastfeeding?
It is currently unknown whether Lesinurad passes into breast milk. Due to the lack of available data, it is generally recommended to avoid using Lesinurad while breastfeeding unless it is absolutely necessary. If you are breastfeeding, speak with your healthcare provider about alternative treatments to ensure the safety of your baby.
Estimated Cost of Lesinurad Medication
The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Lesinurad (200 mg tablets) without insurance ranges from approximately $450 to $500 when using a GoodRx coupon. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and location, so it’s a good idea to check with your local pharmacy or use a coupon service like GoodRx to find the most affordable option.
Possible Alternatives to Lesinurad
If Lesinurad is not the right choice for you, there are other treatments and lifestyle modifications that may help manage your condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss these alternatives.
Gout Treatment Alternatives
Other medications for gout treatment include allopurinol (Zyloprim) and febuxostat (Uloric), both of which work to lower uric acid levels. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol consumption, avoiding purine-rich foods (like red meat and shellfish), and staying well-hydrated can help manage gout symptoms.
Hyperuricemia Treatment Options
In addition to medications like allopurinol, making dietary changes—such as limiting sugary drinks and maintaining a healthy weight—can help reduce uric acid levels.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management
Managing CKD typically involves controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels, as well as avoiding medications that could further harm kidney function. Your healthcare provider can create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Renal Impairment Considerations
If you have renal impairment, your doctor may recommend alternative medications that are safer for your kidneys, such as febuxostat or lower doses of uric acid-lowering drugs.
Managing Metabolic Syndrome
Lifestyle changes, including regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and weight loss, are essential for managing metabolic syndrome. Medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar may also be prescribed as part of your treatment plan.
Hypertension Treatment Options
Common medications for managing high blood pressure include ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and diuretics. Reducing salt intake and engaging in regular exercise can also help lower blood pressure.
Diabetes Management
Managing diabetes typically involves a combination of medications (such as metformin or insulin), regular blood sugar monitoring, and lifestyle changes like a healthy diet and consistent exercise.
Cardiovascular Disease Treatment
Treatment for cardiovascular disease often includes medications to lower cholesterol (such as statins) and blood pressure, along with lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, following a heart-healthy diet, and staying physically active.
Osteoarthritis Pain Management
Pain management for osteoarthritis may involve nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, physical therapy, and weight management. In some cases, joint injections or surgery may be recommended for more severe symptoms.
Kidney Stones Prevention and Treatment
Treatment for kidney stones depends on the type of stone. It may include medications to reduce stone formation, increasing fluid intake, and making dietary changes to limit foods that contribute to stone formation, such as oxalates or sodium.
Recent Updates on Lesinurad Research
Recent studies on Lesinurad have focused on its long-term safety and effectiveness when used in combination with other uric acid-lowering medications, such as allopurinol. Research indicates that Lesinurad, when used as part of combination therapy, can significantly reduce uric acid levels in patients with gout who do not respond adequately to allopurinol alone. However, concerns about potential kidney-related side effects have prompted ongoing studies to better understand the associated risks and how to minimize them.
Additionally, researchers are exploring the potential benefits of Lesinurad for patients with hyperuricemia who also have cardiovascular disease, as elevated uric acid levels are linked to an increased risk of heart problems. More research is needed to determine whether Lesinurad can offer added benefits for this group of patients.
Always consult your healthcare provider for the most current information on Lesinurad and whether it is the right treatment for your condition. If you have any questions or concerns, you can schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss your options.
