Used primarily as a uricosuric agent to treat chronic gout and hyperuricemia by promoting uric acid excretion through the kidneys. It inhibits urate reabsorption in the renal tubules, lowering serum uric acid levels over time. Also exhibits antiplatelet properties by inhibiting platelet aggregation, which has led to its investigation in cardiovascular conditions, though this use is limited. Occasionally used off-label to enhance the excretion of certain antibiotics by competing for renal tubular secretion pathways.