aurothioglucose

Aurothioglucose is a gold-containing chemical (salt) used for treating rheumatoid arthritis. Other gold salts available include injectable gold sodium thiomalate (Myochrysine), and capsules, auranofin (Ridaura). It is not well understood exactly how gold salts work. In patients with inflammatory arthritis, such as adult and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, gold salts can decrease the inflammation of the joint lining. This effect prevents the inflammation from destroying the bone and cartilage surrounding the joints and prevents or slows the development of deformities of the joints. Because of their ability to prevent deformities, gold salts are referred to as disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). DMARDs like aurothioglucose may take weeks to months to become effective.

Solganal

GENERIC AVAILABLE: No

Yes

The most common adverse reactions to aurothioglucose is dermatitis (skin inflammation), pruritus (itching), stomatitis (inflammation affecting the structures in the mouth such as cheeks, gums, tongue, lips, throat). Aurothoglucose can also suppress the bone marrow leading to abnormally low blood counts, including leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia. It can also cause kidney damage manifest by protein loss in the urine.

The usual initial adult dose is 10 mg followed by 25 mg for the second and third doses, then 50 mg weekly until 0.8 to1 g has been administered. The usual dose for children is one-fourth of the adult dose of aurothioglucose, exceeding 25 mg per dose.

The concurrent use of penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen) and aurothioglucose should be avoided as the combination decreases the levels and efficacy of both drugs due to chelation (binding) of the gold salt to the penicillamine.

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Aurothioglucose should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit to the mother justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Aurothioglucose has been found in the breast milk of women. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, decisions should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug.

What preparations of aurothioglucose are available?

Injectable suspension: 50 mg/ml.

How should I keep aurothioglucose stored?

Aurothioglucose should be stored at room temperature between 59 F and 86 F (15 C-30 C) away from light and moisture and should not be frozen.