Uloric side effects have become a widespread concern throughout the United States, with a recent study analyzing the risk of cardiovascular related deaths.

This recent study analyzed Uloric side effects and compared cardiac incidents to allopurinol (Zyloprim and Aloprim), and found that Uloric had an increased risk of non fatal heart attacks, stroke, and cardiac ischemia. Each of these incidents required urgent surgery to prevent potential fatality.

This recent study also analyzed all other fatalities that may have been linked to Uloric side effects and other causes, which has put the medical community on high alert.

The FDA released two warnings regarding Uloric side effects on Nov. 15, 2017, with one stating the FDA would evaluate the drug’s association with increased risks of cardiac problems and the other stating it would be reviewing all reported deaths.

The FDA warnings came after Chicago-based company Takeda Pharmaceuticals published the results of a post market clinical trial illustrating these risks. The results showed a potential link between Uloric side effects and non-fatal cardiovascular events. This clinical study analyzed 6,000 gout patients who were prescribed Uloric or Allopurinol for treatment.

One of the cardiac events indicated in the study was myocardial ischemia, which is a condition that occurs when blood flow to the heart is reduced and can often cause fatigue and rapid heart rates. The results of the study showed an increased risk for cardiac death and other causes of fatality, which reflected earlier concerns the FDA had about the medication.

Overview of Uloric Side Effects

When Uloric (febuxostat) was approved by the FDA in 2009, preclinical trials already showed the drug may present an increased risk of cardiovascular events that would require hospitalization.

While these problems are included on the list of Uloric side effects, the FDA required Takeda Pharmaceuticals to perform a post market trial to help determine the true risk-to-benefit ratio the medication offered patients.

The FDA is currently awaiting the final results of the study and will update the public when they have the information. However the early results of the study have already spurred the FDA to caution the medical community against prescribing Uloric, especially if the patient may be vulnerable or has a history of cardiovascular problems.

“Health care professionals should consider this safety information when deciding whether to prescribe or continue patients on febuxostat. [P]atients should talk to your health care professionals if you have any questions or concerns. Do not stop taking your medicine without first consulting with your health care professional,” the FDA stated.

Uloric is a popular treatment medication for gout, which is a form of arthritis that primarily affects the patient’s joints. This medication works by preventing the body from releasing too much uric acid, which is the main cause of gout.

With the drug’s popularity combined with the numerous patients who suffer gout, thousands of people could be at risk for unexpected cardiovascular events. Patients who suffered unexpected cardiovascular events in conjunction with Uloric side effects may be eligible for participation in a free Uloric side effects investigation.