Contents
Treating Uric Acid Stones: Effective Therapies
Published: Nov 03, 2023
Uric acid stones can be incredibly painful, but effective treatments are available. Learn about the therapies that can help.
Alkalinization Therapy
Alkalinization therapy involves using medications like potassium citrate to raise urine pH. This treatment makes uric acid more soluble, reducing the risk of stone formation. It's a non-invasive option that can dissolve existing stones and prevent new ones.
Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors
For those with recurrent stones, xanthine oxidase inhibitors like allopurinol can be used. These medications lower uric acid production, helping to prevent stone formation. They are especially useful for patients who cannot maintain a high urine pH.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a treatment to increase urine pH and make uric acid more soluble.
They're used for recurrent stones or when urine pH can't be maintained.
Yes, alkalinization can dissolve existing uric acid stones.
The Bottom Line
With the right treatment, uric acid stones can be managed effectively, reducing pain and recurrence.
References
- Pak CY, Sakhaee K, Peterson RD, et al. Biochemical profile of idiopathic uric acid nephrolithiasis. Kidney Int 2001; 60:757.
- Becker MA, Kisicki J, Khosravan R, et al. Febuxostat (TMX-67), a novel, non-purine, selective inhibitor of xanthine oxidase, is safe and decreases serum urate in healthy volunteers. Nucleosides Nucleotides Nucleic Acids 2004; 23:1111.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?