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Probenecid

Antibiotic

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What is probenecid?

Probenecid is a medicine used to help protect the kidneys when a patient is given cidofovir. It can also be used to lower uric acid levels in the body. Probenecid is available as a 500 mg tablet taken by mouth. The pharmacy also makes an oral liquid.

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Possible side effects

  • Nausea and vomiting

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take probenecid will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Possible late effects

  • Headache
  • Skin rash, itching
  • Decrease in appetite
  • Joint pain, redness or swelling
  • Feeling dizzy – rise slowly from a sitting or lying position
  • A need to urinate more often
  • Flushing of face (with or without fever)

These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. 

  • Tell your doctor or nurse if you have an allergy to sulfur containing medicines.
  • When taken with cidofovir, probenecid is taken 3 hours before the cidofovir infusion and 2 hours and 8 hours after each cidofovir infusion is complete. It is important to follow the instructions from your doctor.
  • Taking probenecid with food can reduce stomach problems.
  • Drinking plenty of liquids will decrease the chance of kidney stones while you are receiving probenecid. The doctor or nurse will tell you how much liquid you should drink.
  • Store tablets at room temperature.
  • The liquid will be supplied from the pharmacy in individual amber-colored syringes. These may contain different amounts if taken with cidofovir therapy. Read prescription labels closely. Be aware of the dose to be taken and follow instructions from your doctor.
  • The liquid should be stored in the refrigerator. It expires 24 hours after being made by the pharmacy. For outpatient use, contact the pharmacy to arrange pickup times depending upon the cidofovir infusion schedule.
  • The staff will take blood samples regularly to check for kidney function and blood counts.
  • Probenecid may change the blood levels of other medicines or increase their side effects. Always give a complete list of medicines you are taking to your doctor or pharmacist. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new vitamins, herbals, or other medicines.
  • Do not take aspirin or aspirin-containing products with probenecid.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol.
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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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