Question 1

What is Lesinurad?

Accepted Answer

Lesinurad belongs to a class of drugs known as uric acid transporter inhibitors . It works by blocking the action of a specific protein in the kidneys that is responsible for reabsorbing uric acid back into the bloodstream.

By inhibiting this protein, the medication allows more uric acid to be passed out of the body through urine. This process helps to lower the overall concentration of uric acid in the blood.

Question 2

What is Lesinurad used for?

Accepted Answer

Lesinurad is used to treat hyperuricemia associated with gout in combination with a xanthine oxidase inhibitor .

Question 3

How does Lesinurad work?

Accepted Answer

Mechanism of Action

Lesinurad is used to manage high levels of uric acid in the blood, a condition that can lead to gout. It works by helping the kidneys eliminate uric acid more efficiently.

In a healthy system, the kidneys filter uric acid from the blood. However, the body typically reabsorbs a large portion of that uric acid back into the bloodstream through specialized proteins called transporters. Lesinurad specifically targets and blocks these transporters, primarily one known as URAT1.

By blocking these transporters, lesinurad prevents the uric acid from being reabsorbed. Instead, the acid stays in the urine and is passed out of the body. This process lowers the amount of uric acid circulating in the blood, which helps prevent the formation of crystals in the joints.

This medication is designed to be used with other drugs that decrease the amount of uric acid the body produces. While the other medication slows down production, lesinurad increases the rate at which the body gets rid of the acid.

Question 4

What are the brand names for Lesinurad?

Accepted Answer

Lesinurad is sold under the brand name Zurampic .

Question 5

What are the active ingredients in Lesinurad?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Lesinurad is lesinurad .

Question 6

What are the side effects of Lesinurad?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Lesinurad may include:

headache

influenza

increased blood creatinine

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 7

What drug class is Lesinurad?

Accepted Answer

Lesinurad belongs to the uricosuric agent drug class.

Question 8

What is the dosage of Lesinurad and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Take Lesinurad

Lesinurad is taken by mouth, usually once daily in the morning. It should be taken at the same time as a xanthine oxidase inhibitor medication. Always take this medicine with food and a full glass of water.

While taking this medication, it is important to stay well-hydrated. Healthcare providers typically recommend drinking a significant amount of water or other liquids throughout the day to help protect the kidneys and prevent kidney stones.

This medication is not meant to be used alone. It must be used with another medication that helps lower uric acid. If you stop taking your other gout medication, you should also stop taking lesinurad.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose in the morning, skip that dose entirely. Take your next dose the following morning at your usual time. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Question 9

Is Lesinurad safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

It is not known whether lesinurad will harm an unborn baby. There is insufficient data to determine the safety of this medication for pregnant individuals. Those who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, notify your doctor.

Breastfeeding

It is unknown if lesinurad passes into human breast milk or if it could affect a nursing infant. Because the effects on a nursing child are not established, it is important to talk with a healthcare professional if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed before using this medication.

Question 10

What forms and strengths does Lesinurad come in?

Accepted Answer

Lesinurad is administered orally and comes in the following forms:

Oral Tablet: A single-ingredient tablet containing only lesinurad.

Combination Oral Tablet: A fixed-dose tablet that contains both lesinurad and allopurinol.

Question 11

What is the FDA approval status of Lesinurad?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indication

Lesinurad was approved by the FDA as a uric acid transporter 1 (URAT1) inhibitor. It is indicated for the treatment of hyperuricemia associated with gout in patients who have not achieved target serum uric acid levels with a xanthine oxidase inhibitor alone. It must be used in combination with a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, such as allopurinol or febuxostat, and is not approved for use as a monotherapy.

Boxed Warning

The FDA-approved labeling includes a Boxed Warning regarding the risk of acute renal failure. This risk is significantly increased if lesinurad is used without a xanthine oxidase inhibitor or at doses higher than the recommended 200 mg once daily. Healthcare providers are advised to monitor kidney function before starting treatment and periodically during therapy.

Regulatory Considerations and Pharmacogenomics

CYP2C9 Metabolism: The FDA identifies lesinurad as having pharmacogenomic implications. Patients who are CYP2C9 poor metabolizers may have higher levels of the drug in their system, which can increase the risk of renal side effects.

Market Status: While lesinurad remains an FDA-approved drug, the brand-name versions (Zurampic and the combination product Duzallo) were discontinued from the U.S. market by the manufacturer for business reasons rather than safety or efficacy concerns.

Limitations of Use: It is not recommended for the treatment of asymptomatic hyperuricemia.

Question 12

What should I know about Lesinurad and cost?

Accepted Answer

Insurance and Pharmacy Factors

The cost of lesinurad depends on your insurance plan and the pharmacy you choose. However, the brand-name version of this medication has been discontinued in the United States, which significantly impacts its availability and pricing.

Insurance Coverage: If the medication is still available, your insurance provider's formulary will determine your out-of-pocket costs.

Pharmacy Pricing: Prices for remaining stock may vary between different retail or specialty pharmacies.

Treatment Alternatives

There are no generic versions of lesinurad available. Since the brand-name product is no longer being distributed, patients are encouraged to discuss alternative gout treatments with their healthcare provider. These alternatives may be more widely available and covered by insurance plans at a lower cost.

Lesinurad

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