Phenylbutazone: an evaluation of its use.

Phenylbutazone (Butazolidin(R)), one of the newer antirheumatic drugs, while providing varying degrees of symptomatic relief in various types of rheumatism, may also cause serious toxic side effects. It is most effective in acute gout, and slightly less so in rheumatoid arthritis, of both the spondylitic and peripheral types. Its use in degenerative arthritis is not indicated. Its toxic side effects include gastrointestinal upsets, edema, rash, stomatitis, purpura, hematuria, agranulocytosis and reactivation of peptic ulcer. Several fatalities have been reported. It is, however, a valuable drug if used properly. Extreme caution should be exercised in selection of patients, in administration of the drug and in continuous observation of patients receiving it.